Patna: Bihar has issued a public advisory after reports of unknown and unusual fish reaching some areas with floodwaters from Nepal. The Fisheries Division of the Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources Department has urged people to avoid consuming such fish.
The advisory comes amid reports of people falling ill after consuming unidentified fish. The department has asked citizens to exercise caution and inform local authorities if they spot unfamiliar fish.
Why People Should Avoid Floodwater Fish
During floods, fish can escape from ponds, rivers, lakes and reservoirs and travel with flowing water over long distances.
According to the department, fish exposed to dirty drains, dead animals and other contaminated material can carry bacteria, viruses, fungi and other harmful agents. Consuming such fish could therefore pose health risks.
The department has advised people to avoid fish caught directly from floodwaters until conditions stabilise and the risk of contamination reduces.
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Advisory on Buying and Selling
The government has also asked people to avoid buying, selling or consuming fish caught from floodwaters.
Citizens should not assume that an unfamiliar fish is safe to eat unless its identity has been established and confirmed by the concerned authorities.
What To Do If Symptoms Appear
People who develop vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, dizziness or breathing difficulties after consuming such fish should immediately contact the nearest health centre or hospital.
Anyone spotting unidentified or unusual fish has also been asked to inform the District Fisheries Officer or local administration.
The department has appealed to people not to spread or believe rumours and to prioritise safety by completely avoiding unidentified fish during the flood situation.
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