Mysterious Fever Claims Lives of Three Children in Bihar

Three children in Raniganj village of Bihar's Araria district have died from a 'mysterious fever' over recent days. While family members suggest the deaths were due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), local authorities await the findings of medical experts to determine the exact cause.

At least three children have died at Raniganj village of Bihar's Araria district following a 'mysterious fever' in the last three days, officials said.

Although the family members of the deceased claimed that the children died due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), or brain fever, an illness locally known as 'Chamki Bukhar,' district administration maintained that medical experts are trying to find out the exact reason behind the death.

The deceased were identified as Raunak Kumar (4), Ankush Kumar (2 months old), and Gauri Kumar (7). Raunak Kumar died on Saturday, while Ankush Kumar and Gauri Kumar succumbed to the mysterious fever on Sunday and Monday, respectively.

Villagers claimed that more children suffering from the mysterious fever were admitted to the nearest government hospital. Speaking to PTI, Inayat Khan, District Magistrate (DM) of Araria, said, 'Yes, it is true that three children died in Raniganj village in the last three days. The family members have said that the children were suffering from cough and cold and pneumonia-like symptoms.'

'A team of medical experts have been sent to the village to analyze the situation and also find out others suffering from cough and cold and pneumonia-like symptoms,' the district magistrate said. The civil surgeon of Araria district is monitoring the situation, she added.

The exact cause of death of the children is not known as family members have already performed their last rites. Three more children from the same village, suffering from pneumonia-like symptoms, were admitted to the government hospital. 'The doctors are constantly monitoring their conditions. We are keeping a close watch on the situation, and the reason behind the children's death can only be known after medical experts submit their reports,' the DM said.

(With inputs from agencies.)