Probe Demanded After Infant Deaths Post-Vaccination in Bilaspur

Former Chhattisgarh deputy chief minister TS Singh Deo has called for a probe into the deaths of two infants following vaccination at an immunisation camp in Bilaspur district. Health officials asserted that vaccinations were not responsible, but the opposition seeks a detailed investigation. Precautionary measures have been implemented.

Former Chhattisgarh deputy chief minister TS Singh Deo on Sunday demanded an investigation into the deaths of two infants after receiving vaccinations at an immunisation camp in Bilaspur district.

Health officials confirmed the vaccinations were unrelated to the deaths, though Dreputy chief minister Singh Deo met the families and described the situation as 'very serious.' He requested the immediate sealing of the entire vaccine batch and urged an official inquiry. The opposition has established a six-member committee, led by Kota MLA Atal Shrivastava, to investigate the incidents.

Former Bilaspur MLA Shailesh Pandey accused the BJP of remaining silent while blaming the vaccination for the fatalities.

Bilaspur District Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Prabhat Shrivastava stated that eight children were vaccinated on August 30. A two-day-old baby, given the BCG vaccine, died the same day, and a two-month-old child administered the Pentavalent-I vaccine died the next day. Six other children from the village remain healthy and under medical examination.

Shrivastava asserted that vaccination was not the cause, speculating that infections or pneumonia could be to blame. He noted that 5,000 BCG doses and 10,000 Pentavalent doses were part of the batch, and no prior complaints were recorded. The vaccine consignment's use has been halted as a precaution.

(With inputs from agencies.)