A suspected outbreak of viral illness in Salumber has claimed two more young lives, raising the death toll to eight children over the past few days.
Health officials suspect viral encephalitis as the possible cause, though confirmation is awaited from laboratory reports.
Two more deaths reported
The latest victims, identified as Raunak Ved (4) and Divyansh (2), were rushed to hospital after developing high fever and vomiting. Doctors declared them dead shortly after arrival.
Officials noted that while symptoms were similar to earlier cases, there were slight variations, making it necessary to confirm the exact cause through testing.
Samples sent for detailed analysis
Authorities have collected blood, stool, and saliva samples from affected children and sent them to the National Institute of Virology for examination.
District Collector Muhammed Junaid said medical teams have been closely monitoring the situation and conducting field investigations.
Rising number of cases alarms authorities
Since April 1, six other children from nearby villages, including Ghata and Lalpura, have died after showing similar symptoms within a short time of onset.
Health officials reported that at least 85 children have been hospitalised, while over 940 children were identified with similar symptoms during a large-scale screening drive.
Massive health survey and response
Medical teams screened children across schools and anganwadis, covering more than 1.2 lakh households in the Udaipur division. Preventive measures, including anti-larval activities, have also been carried out in thousands of locations.
Awaiting clarity on cause
Authorities emphasise that while viral encephalitis is suspected, confirmation will depend on test results from Pune. Experts are also examining whether another infection or environmental factor could be responsible.
Concern grows among residents
The sudden deaths have caused panic among families in the affected areas, with officials urging people to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever and vomiting appear.
The situation remains under close watch as health teams continue surveillance and response efforts.