Nepal floods trigger public health alert in Bihar: What happens if you consume contaminated fish?

Alerting the public to avoid consuming 'unfamiliar' fish that were spotted in certain areas of Bihar, the state government is taking steps to mitigate health issues.

Bihar Dairy, Animal Resources and Fisheries Minister Nand Kishor Ram cautioned the public that the presence of unfamiliar fish that were spotted could have entered the state with floodwaters from Nepal. Consumption of such fish could cause serious illness.

As per PTI, some people have reported stomachache, diarrhoea and vomiting after eating such fish.

"I appeal to people to avoid eating fish flowing in from Nepal through rivers such as Gandak... These are visibly distinct in their appearance. These fish are known to cause stomachache, vomiting and breathing difficulties. Consumption of such fish may also lead to infections. It is better not to eat them," the minister said and also urged fishermen not to sell such fish.

Why is the government advising people to be cautious?

Fish washed out of ponds, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs during floods may spread over large areas and come into prolonged contact with open drains, dead animals, and decaying matter, increasing the risk of contamination by bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

"Consuming these fish is hazardous to health," officials said, advising people not to consume fish caught from floodwaters until environmental conditions return to normal and natural contaminants and pathogens subside.

What happens on the consumption of contaminated fish?

As per the advisory, people who consumed the contaminated fish might show symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, dizziness, breathing difficulty or other unusual signs. They are advised to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health centre or hospital on noticing these symptoms.

For more information, consult a health expert.