Andhra CM orders inquiry after villagers fall ill following anti-malaria drug distribution
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered an inquiry after dozens of villagers fell ill following the distribution of anti-malaria medication. Medical teams have been deployed to the area, and officials report that all affected patients are currently in stable condition.
Why it matters
The incident raises concerns regarding public health safety protocols and the distribution of pharmaceuticals in rural regions.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the incident at Gollaguppa village in Polavaram district following reports that a girl died after allegedly reacting adversely to an anti-malaria tablet (chloroquine).
The Chief Minister, late on Tuesday (September 1, 2026), spoke to senior officials of the Health and Medical Department and the district Collector to ascertain the facts and directed them to ensure the best possible medical treatment for all those affected.
Officials told Mr. Naidu that medicines had been distributed to 71 people in the village. Of those who fell ill, 29 were taken to the Bhadrachalam Area Hospital in neighbouring Telangana for treatment, while another 24 were receiving treatment at the Lakshmipuram Primary Health Centre.
A medical camp was set up in the village immediately after the authorities learnt about the incident, and medical examinations were conducted on residents.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in