T’puram: More than 25 people have sought medical treatment over the past week after allegedly consuming stale fish in Uzhamalackal near Aryanad, raising concerns over food safety and prompting health authorities to launch a probe. According to locals, those who fell ill had purchased fish from Aryanad market and from vendors in Uzhamalackal and Kuttichal. After consuming the fish, many developed severe itching, vomiting, diarrhoea and swelling in legs, forcing them to seek treatment at nearby hospitals. Locals alleged that similar cases have been reported continuously over the past week among people who consumed fish from the area. They also complained that despite the growing number of patients, adequate medical examinations and a comprehensive investigation have not yet been carried out. Hospital sources said three patients are currently undergoing treatment at MCH, while one person remains admitted to Aryanad govt hospital. Two children are also receiving treatment at SAT hospital. Doctors said most patients are in stable condition, although some continue to remain under observation. The food safety department collected fish samples from the suspected source for laboratory analysis to determine the cause of the contamination. Preliminary findings indicate that the fish may not have been stored under proper hygienic and temperature-controlled conditions. Food safety officials intensified inspections at fish stalls and markets in the region and warned traders against selling spoiled or improperly preserved seafood. Authorities said strict action would be taken against those found violating food safety regulations. Meanwhile, residents have demanded a thorough probe into the incident and stronger monitoring of fish sold in the area.
