Malkangiri: The toll due to Japanese Encephalitis went up to 72 with two more deaths at the district headquarters hospital here on Friday.
The deceased have been identified as Chandan Kabasi (5) of Badali village in Korokonda block and Sariam Ramu of Jilenguda.
With the fresh deaths, the toll mounts to 72 in 50 days.
Meanwhile, another 3-year-old baby boy, undergoing treatment at the ICU of the Koraput hospital, died this morning.
The deceased has been identified as Akash Khemundu of Khairaput block in Malkangiri.
Though the exact reason behind his death is known, Japanese Encephalitis is suspected as the cause behind the death.
On Thursday, Health Minister Pradeep Amat and Secretary Arti Ahuja visited the affected areas in of Malkangiri district to take stock of the situation.
The district Collector and the CDMO accompanied the minister and the secretary in their visit to the affected areas, including Kurusibeda village.
Also read: Health Min, Secy review JE situation in Malkangiri
On the other hand, the virus has now been found in pigs of Koraput district. While 28 blood samples from six blocks in the district were sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Uttar Pradesh, eight were tested positive for the Japanese Encephalitis virus. The eight positive cases are from Jeypore, Kotpad and Boipariguda blocks.