The prevalence of morbidity is very high among the tribes living in isolation from the general population, according to a study conducted by the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, a wing of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

A paper published by the NIN pointed out that "the prevalence of morbidities, such as fever and diarrhoea, are relatively higher compared to that are reported in rural areas." The survey, however, found that the coverage of beneficiaries for immunisation and supplementation of massive dose of vitamin A was relatively good. The survey was conducted by NIN on the initiative of Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) of Bhadrachalam in Khammam district of Andhra Pradesh.

The survey gained significance in the backdrop of spurt in cases of fever and diarrhoea in tribal areas which have claimed the lives of 12 persons so far.

The NIN released a paper which listed various diseases afflicting the tribals. The survey, according to officials in the Health Department, was intended to help the medical service agency to zero in on targeted area.

"The prevalence of conjunctival xerosis and bitot spots (shiny pearly spots of triangular shape occurring on the conjunctiva in severe vitamin A deficiency especially in children) was as high as 12.4 per cent among school age children." The survey, however, complimented the ITD Project for being able to cover 93 per cent of children by immunisation for polio and others.

The survey recommended to the government to strengthen the existing facilities like health and nutrition facilities in tribal areas. A sustained programme to ensure that the tribals seek healthcare from qualified doctors should be conducted, it said.