5 Kids Among 12 Dead As 'Mysterious Illness' Spreads In Haryana Village, Water Safety Under Probe

Last Updated:February 16, 2026, 17:06 IST

The health crisis began in the last week of January when several residents suddenly developed symptoms such as fever, stomach pain, vomiting, cough and body aches

A quiet village in Haryana’s Palwal district has been gripped by fear after a series of unexplained deaths over the past fortnight claimed 12 lives, including 5 schoolchildren, leaving residents anxious and searching for answers.

In Chhainsa village, panic has spread rapidly as a growing number of people continue to fall ill. According to villagers, the health crisis began in the last week of January when several residents suddenly developed symptoms such as fever, stomach pain, vomiting, cough and body aches. Initially dismissed as a seasonal illness, the situation soon turned alarming as patients’ conditions worsened and deaths began to occur.

Residents claim that almost every household now has at least one sick member, with many in serious condition. Families have been rushing patients to government and private hospitals, but the lack of clear improvement has deepened concern across the village.

Among the 12 people who died in the last 15 days are children, teenagers, young adults and the elderly, raising suspicions that the illness is affecting all age groups. The seriousness of the situation has prompted health department teams to remain stationed in the village.

Officials have collected around 300 blood samples and screened more than 600 villagers. Preliminary findings have confirmed cases of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C among some patients. Authorities say a few deaths appear to be linked to liver infections and multiple organ failure, although the exact cause behind all the fatalities remains unclear.

During the investigation, 107 samples of drinking water were taken from different parts of the village, of which 23 failed quality tests. Reports indicated the presence of bacteria and inadequate chlorination. Many families rely on underground storage tanks or tanker-supplied water, raising concerns about possible waterborne infections.

Health officials stated that Hepatitis B infection was confirmed in four of the deceased. Meanwhile, fear has also given rise to rumours and superstition. Some villagers are referring to the outbreak as a “mysterious illness", while others are turning to traditional remedies.

The health department has urged residents not to believe in rumours and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. Officials say the situation is being closely monitored, with special medical checks being conducted in households where deaths have occurred. Infected patients are currently undergoing treatment in hospitals.

Chhainsa, a village of around 5,000 people, remains under a cloud of anxiety as authorities continue efforts to identify the exact cause behind the sudden wave of illness and deaths.

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