What caused the food poisoning incident in Vizhinjam?

The food poisoning incident in Vizhinjam is suspected to be caused by fish roe contaminated with a potent marine neurotoxin, possibly tetrodotoxin (TTX).

What are the symptoms of tetrodotoxin (TTX) poisoning?

Symptoms of TTX poisoning are predominantly neurological and can include severe paralysis, leading to rapid and sometimes fatal outcomes.

Where was the suspected contaminated fish roe sourced from?

The fish roe suspected in the Vizhinjam incident was reportedly sourced by the restaurant from Muttom in Tamil Nadu.

Home / Health / Deadly Fish Roe: Vizhinjam Restaurant Tragedy

Deadly Fish Roe: Vizhinjam Restaurant Tragedy

23 Feb

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Summary

Fish roe suspected as source of potent marine neurotoxin.
Seafood consumed at Vizhinjam restaurant led to acute illness.
Deaths occurred within hours after symptoms appeared.

Deadly Fish Roe: Vizhinjam Restaurant Tragedy

A serious food poisoning outbreak in Vizhinjam has been linked to fish roe, suspected to be contaminated with a potent marine neurotoxin, possibly tetrodotoxin (TTX). The incident resulted in several hospitalizations and fatalities after individuals consumed seafood from a local restaurant on February 16. Doctors believe the rapid onset of predominantly neurological symptoms and swift fatalities are consistent with TTX poisoning.

Investigations have largely ruled out bacterial contamination, focusing instead on marine algal toxins. Tetrodotoxin, a powerful and heat-stable neurotoxin found in fish eggs, has no known antidote and can cause severe paralysis. The toxin is known to accumulate in fish ovaries, making fish roe a likely culprit. Officials are investigating the roe's origin, reportedly from Muttom, Tamil Nadu, and await chemical analysis of samples from the deceased for confirmation.

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