Key Development

A medical board has confirmed that people who fell ill after eating seafood from a restaurant in Vizhinjam developed similar symptoms, raising concerns about possible marine toxin exposure. S. Arunraj (39), a native of Vazhamuttam, remains in critical condition at a private hospital in Anayara. Doctors have placed him on ventilator support and plan to shift him to an acute ICU. Two other individuals who consumed seafood from the same restaurant are also undergoing treatment.

Arunraj had dined at the restaurant with his wife and two children. He reportedly consumed prawns and squid, while the children ate puttu and fish curry. His wife and children did not develop any symptoms. Authorities have reported two deaths from Nilamel in connection with the incident. Around eight others have sought treatment at different hospitals after consuming seafood from the same outlet. The Medical College has arranged emergency treatment facilities to manage patients presenting similar symptoms. All affected individuals ate at the restaurant between 7 PM and 2 AM on Monday.

Symptoms Reported

Doctors observed consistent neurological symptoms among the affected individuals, including:

• Difficulty walking
• Muscle weakness affecting breathing
• Double vision
• Signs resembling neuro-poisoning

The similarity in symptoms among patients prompted the formation of a medical board to assess the situation.

Investigation Underway

Health authorities have initiated an investigation into the source of contamination. Officials are collecting food samples and conducting laboratory tests to identify the exact cause of the illness. Medical experts suspect marine toxin exposure as a possible cause. Certain toxins can accumulate in seafood harvested from contaminated or algal bloom–affected waters. These toxins can cause severe neurological symptoms, and, importantly, cooking does not destroy them. Authorities are closely monitoring new cases and have strengthened emergency response mechanisms at major hospitals.

Source: Mathrubhumi