Mahakumbh: Doctor Issues Urgent Health Warning as Devotees Face Lung Infection Risk After Holy Dip

A disturbing incident has come to light where a person developed a serious lung infection after bathing in the Kumbh Mela waters. The patient's condition is reportedly critical, and she has been placed on a ventilator and in a prone position for treatment. Dr. Deepashikha Ghosh shared this alarming update on social media, highlighting the dangers posed by the water. This warning comes after the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) submitted a report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), stating that the waters of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj are unsafe for bathing. The CPCB tested water samples from 73 locations and found that levels of fecal coliform bacteria were dangerously high in many areas.

Dr. Ghosh explained that the patient had contracted a severe lung infection after water entered her nose while bathing at the Kumbh Mela. The infection was so severe that the patient could no longer breathe on her own. Dr. Ghosh stressed the importance of balancing faith with scientific understanding and urged caution when engaging in religious rituals involving water.

Additionally, Dr. Siriek AB Philips, a well-known liver specialist, posted on social media about the presence of bacteria in the Ganga water. The CPCB's report also evaluated other water quality parameters, such as pH, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and dissolved oxygen, with results meeting acceptable standards. However, the high levels of fecal coliform bacteria pose significant health risks, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, skin infections, and more.Dr. Ghosh's post has sparked varied reactions on social media. While some users suggested that the woman may not have known how to bathe correctly, others expressed shock and concern over the potential health hazards.