Pin found in medicine capsule: Kerala police investigate allegation at state-run hospital

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Police have launched an investigation into a complaint alleging that a woman found a pin inside a medicine capsule she received from a state-run hospital in Vithura, located on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram.

The Kerala State Health Department has alerted the state police chief about the incident, expressing concerns of possible foul play. Health officials suspect that the allegation could be an attempt to harm the reputation of the department.

Investigation underway after viral video

The issue came to light after the woman, who had collected her medication from the Taluk Hospital’s pharmacy, discovered a pin inside a capsule. A video of the incident went viral on social media, prompting the Health Department to begin an inquiry.

Initial investigations by the Health Department suggested that the claim may not be true. As the issue gained attention, the department informed the police chief, leading to an intensified investigation by the Vithura Police. Authorities are exploring the possibility that the allegation is part of an orchestrated effort to damage the department's image.

Concerns over misuse of antibiotics

The timing of the complaint is notable, as it follows the Kerala Health Department's ongoing campaign against the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Since the campaign's launch in October 2024, the state has seen a 30 percent decrease in antibiotic use.

The department’s campaign is aimed at tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global public health threat caused by the overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and plants. As part of this initiative, Kerala hospitals are being transformed into "antibiotic-smart" facilities, and antibiotics are no longer available for sale without a doctor’s prescription.

New guidelines for antibiotics distribution

Additionally, antibiotics are now being dispensed in blue packaging, and patients must provide a doctor's prescription when purchasing them from medical stores. These measures are part of the state's effort to combat AMR and ensure the responsible use of antibiotics.

Authorities continue to investigate the situation, which has raised questions about the integrity of the state's healthcare system.

Agency