Rajouri Tragedy: Death Toll Reaches 16 as 60-Year-Old Woman Passes Away

SRINAGAR: The death toll from an unexplained illness in the Badhal area of Rajouri rose to 16 on Friday, following the demise of a 60-year-old woman at GMC Rajouri.

An official said that the woman, identified as Jatti egum, wife of Mohammad Yousuf, was admitted to the hospital after falling ill on Thursday evening. She succumbed to her condition within 12 hours of admission.

Mohammad Yousuf, her husband, is also battling for his life at the same hospital after being affected by the mysterious illness.

The outbreak, which began in December 2024, has baffled health authorities, with multiple families falling ill under similar circumstances. The first case was reported on December 7, when a family of seven became ill after attending a community function. The illness claimed five lives, predominantly affecting children.

On December 12, a second incident involved a family of nine, resulting in three deaths. Most recently, on January 12, a family of ten fell ill after consuming another community meal, with six children requiring hospitalisation.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the illness and are assisting affected families. However, the lack of clarity regarding the source and spread of the illness has raised concerns among residents.

The government has intensified medical and epidemiological efforts in the region, but the situation remains critical. Health officials are urging residents to avoid communal meals and adhere to strict hygiene practices until more information is available. (JKNS)