Vijayawada: Panic and concern continue to grip parts of Andhra Pradesh after a major milk adulteration incident left several people hospitalized, with at least 15 individuals reported to be in critical condition. Health officials confirmed that toxicology reports are still awaited to determine the exact nature of the contamination.

The incident came to light after dozens of residents from multiple localities complained of severe vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness shortly after consuming milk purchased from local vendors. The affected individuals were rushed to nearby government and private hospitals, where emergency treatment was initiated.

District health authorities have launched an investigation into the source of the adulterated milk. Preliminary inquiries suggest that the contamination may have occurred during distribution, though officials have not ruled out deliberate adulteration. Samples of the suspected milk batches have been sent to forensic laboratories for detailed toxicological analysis.

“We are closely monitoring the condition of the critically ill patients. Their response to treatment will be clearer once we receive the toxicology findings,” a senior health official said.

Food safety officers have begun inspections of dairies and milk collection centers in the region. Several vendors have been detained for questioning, and authorities have seized milk stocks from suspected supply chains as a precautionary measure.

Meanwhile, the state government has assured strict action against those responsible and has urged the public to purchase milk only from authorized and certified outlets until the investigation is complete.

Further updates are expected once laboratory reports confirm the contaminants involved and the scope of the adulteration.

By admin