2 children die in Gujarat, probe ordered

Two children have died in Gujarat due to unknown reasons, prompting a government enquiry to ascertain whether the deaths are linked to the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination for which a drive is underway, an official said today.

While the families of the deceased alleged that the deaths occurred due to "adverse reactions" caused by the vaccination, the Health officials ruled it out.

The deceased were identified as Dimple Maheswari (13) and Mukesh Ninama (7) who hailed from Kutch and Aravlli districts respectively.

The Health Department has ordered a probe into the death of Dimple Maheshwari in Khirsara village, a senior officer said even as he ruled out any connection between the vaccination and the death of the girl.

According to the police, Maheshwari suddenly collapsed at her house this morning.

She was rushed to a health centre in Naliya town, where doctors declared her brought dead, a Kothara police official said.

The police have registered a case of accidental death.

"The girl's family members have alleged that she died because of the adverse effects of the MR vaccine given to her a few days back. We have sent the body for a post-mortem to ascertain the exact cause of the death," the official said.

The Gujarat government launched a statewide vaccination drive on July 16 to protect children in the age group of nine months to 15 years from measles and rubella.

Chief District Health Officer (CDHO) for Kutch