A tragic incident in Odisha’s Puri district has sparked concern over child health and hygiene awareness after a 12-year-old girl reportedly died following complications linked to an untreated lice infestation.
Minor Health Issue Turns Fatal
Lakshmipriya Sahu, a Class VI student from Champagad Sahi, had reportedly been struggling with a persistent lice infestation for several months. According to family members, they initially attempted home remedies to treat the condition, but the infestation continued to worsen.
Sources said her mother had suggested shaving her head — a traditional practice in some rural areas to manage severe lice infestations — but the child was reportedly hesitant due to embarrassment and social discomfort.
Condition Worsened Over Time
Family members stated that Lakshmipriya began avoiding social interactions and spent more time indoors as her condition worsened. The infestation allegedly led to scalp irritation and foul odour, though the seriousness of the situation was not fully realised at the time.
Health experts often warn that prolonged untreated infestations can sometimes lead to skin infections if proper care and hygiene are not maintained.
Sudden Medical Emergency
Three days before her death, Lakshmipriya reportedly began vomiting blood, alarming her family. She was immediately rushed to the Puri District Headquarters Hospital for treatment.
Despite medical intervention, the girl passed away on Saturday night, hospital sources confirmed.
Doctors Suspect Severe Infection
Preliminary medical assessments suggest the possibility of a severe infection, potentially leading to sepsis. However, officials stated that the exact cause of death will be confirmed only after the postmortem report is released.
Doctors have emphasized that while lice infestations are generally treatable, neglect or secondary infections can sometimes lead to serious complications in rare cases.
Community Calls for Health Awareness
The incident has triggered concern among local residents and social workers, who have stressed the need for increased awareness about child hygiene and early medical intervention in rural areas.
Community volunteers have urged regular health check-ups for children and better access to basic healthcare services to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Police Begin Inquiry
Police have initiated an investigation into the case and have registered it as an unnatural death pending further medical findings. Authorities said they are awaiting the postmortem report for clarity on the exact cause.
A Reminder About Preventive Care
Health officials say the tragedy highlights the importance of early treatment, proper hygiene, and open communication between families, schools, and healthcare workers when children show signs of persistent health problems.