India, March 12 -- Twelve people have died in a suspected milk adulteration case in East Godavari district, while eight others are undergoing treatment at various hospitals here.

According to the health department, the cluster was first identified on February 22, when several elderly persons were admitted to hospitals with symptoms including anuria, vomiting, abdominal pain and acute renal dysfunction requiring dialysis.

Those affected were residents of Chowdeswaranagar and Swaroopanagar areas of Lalacheruvu. "Strong epidemiological evidence indicates milk adulteration as the probable cause, and coordinated action has been initiated across departments," a press release said.

Clinical findings showed elevated blood urea and serum creati...