Bizarre ‘baldness virus’ hits several villages in India: Here’s why people are losing hair in this infection

An unusual and bizarre health crisis has emerged in the

Buldhana district

of Maharashtra, causing alarm among residents of several villages. According to several media reports, this strange condition, which has been informally called the ‘

Baldness Virus

’, is characterised by rapid hair loss, with some individuals going completely bald within just three days. Reports indicate that over 150 people have been affected so far, with symptoms also reported in at least 400 others across 15 villages in the Shegaon tehsil.
What are the symptoms and impact?
This condition reportedly starts off with a feeling of itching around the scalp, which is quickly followed by significant hair loss. Affected individuals include men, women, and children from villages such as Hingna, Bondgaon, Bhota, and Pahur Purna. The sudden onset of this bizarre condition has left many residents terrified and seeking answers.

Quick response from the authorities
In response to the outbreak, local authorities have opened an investigation into possible causes, including water contamination. Samples from different sources have been collected for testing; however, the exact origin of this disturbing condition remains unknown. Several media reports earlier indicated that the condition may be associated with contaminated water, fungal infections, malnutrition, or adverse reactions to certain chemicals or cosmetics.
The Purna river basin area, where many affected villages are located, is known for its saline soil and poor water quality. Previous government reports have indicated high levels of fluoride in the groundwater of this region, which could potentially contribute to health issues.
A high-level team led by the Zilla Parishad (ZP) chief executive officer conducted an inspection of the affected areas on January 11. This team included medical experts from Akola and Buldhana medical colleges who provided urgent healthcare assistance to those impacted. They also engaged with local residents to address their concerns and provide reassurance during this distressing time.

Preliminary findings: No fungal infection!
According to Hindustan Times, initial investigations into hair, scalp, and nail samples have ruled out fungal infections as the cause of this mysterious ‘bald virus’. However, medical professionals caution that these findings are preliminary and further analysis is necessary to reach a definitive diagnosis. The microbiology reports essential for a complete understanding are expected to be out soon.
Apart from testing hair samples, health officials are analysing groundwater from affected villages for contamination. A recent report indicated no presence of harmful substances like arsenic or lead in the water samples tested, however, elevated levels of nitrates were found in several locations. As a precautionary measure, local gram panchayats have been advised to avoid using water sources with high nitrate content until further notice.
Present health measures
Symptomatic treatment has started at Primary Health Centres for those affected to tackle the health crisis effectively. Dermatologists have examined patients and sent samples for skin biopsies to further investigate the cause of hair loss.
An independent team of microbiologists and dermatologists has also conducted surveys in the region. Blood samples of more than 65 villagers have been taken and are being sent to laboratories, where preliminary findings did not point any correlation between the blood samples and hair loss. In addition to this, food safety officers are taking samples of local shampoos, hair oils, and soaps as part of an ongoing investigation of a possible cosmetic-product link to the outbreak.
Public awareness efforts
Public awareness campaigns have been launched in the affected villages to create public awareness regarding the need for ensuring safe drinking and bathing water. The district health system is placed on high alert as local and state authorities are working together to manage this unusual situation comprehensively.

The

Indian Council of Medical Research

has scheduled a visit to the affected areas to conduct an in-depth probe into this alarming health crisis. The outcome will be crucial in deciding further necessary measures in order to protect public health in Buldhana district.