An Epidemiological Investigation of Chemical Spill Related Illness at District Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background: On October 10, 2017, children from a school of Uttar Pradesh reported sudden onset of bitter taste and breathlessness. The objective of the present field investigation was to describe the epidemiology, public health response and provide recommendations to limit the impact of such future incidents.

Methods: We defined a case as “a resident of Dayanand colony, Shamli district who reported to have experienced sudden onset of bitter taste or breathlessness between October 9 and15, 2017”. House-to-house survey, environmental assessments, laboratory investigation, record review, and interviews with key informants were undertaken as part of this present investigation.

Results: We identified 383 cases, out of which 60% were female and 74% were being school children. The attack rate was calculated to be 4% (383/10,399). Median age was 13 years (range 3-63). Symptoms included bitter taste (94%), breathlessness (61%), vomiting (49%); 70% sought medical care and 3% were hospitalized. Most cases (90%) had onset of illness on October 10, between 8-11 am. We observed whitish powder scattered in the dumping yard of sugar mill and on the adjacent road.

Discussion: The acute onset of illness, predominantly among children, was likely associated with a chemical spill from the local sugar mill prior to disposal at the dumping yard. In response, the state government mandated the closure of the mill and restricted access to the adjoining road. We also recommend stringent enforcement of industrial chemical safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in future.