Amaravati, 26 February (HS): The Andhra Pradesh government has stepped up surveillance and enforcement measures across the State following the detection of a cluster of acute renal failure cases in East Godavari district, allegedly linked to adulterated milk.

The move comes after five deaths and several hospitalisations were reported in Rajamahendravaram. According to an official release issued on Thursday, preliminary epidemiological investigations indicated milk consumption as the probable source of exposure in the reported cluster of cases.

“The Andhra government has intensified surveillance and enforcement measures after detecting a cluster of acute renal failure cases in Rajamahendravaram, East Godavari district, with preliminary epidemiological findings indicating milk consumption as the probable source of exposure,” the release stated.

In response, the State government has launched inspections at milk sales and storage centres. Officials said around 150 milk samples have been collected from various parts of the State and dispatched for laboratory testing.

Authorities are conducting field-level monitoring and coordinating with health and food safety departments to trace the source of contamination. Further action will be taken based on laboratory findings, officials said.

The government has also directed local administrations to remain alert and ensure strict compliance with food safety standards to prevent similar incidents.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar