GUWAHATI: Seventeen individuals in Assam's Dhemaji district have fallen ill after consuming wild mushrooms. Out of the affected individuals, 14 are from Simen Sapori, while the remaining three are from West Subahi. The victims have been identified as Sumitra Narzary (40), Rindev Ramsiary (32) from No-3 Jaipur, five individuals from Hangma village - Sabitri Doimary (47), Mukung Swargiyari (30), Brindaban Bosumotary (29), Ringkham Doimari (26), and Rohila Basumaotray (55). Additionally, three individuals from Majgaon have been affected - July Swargiyari (20), John Swargiyari (12), and Anjali Swargiyary (17), along with Khagen Narzary (45) from Loglung gaon.
Dr. Jugen Das, the District Surveillance Officer (IDSP) of Dhemaji, closely monitored the health condition of the affected individuals and confirmed that their health had stabilized after treatment. Subsequently, they were discharged from Dhemaji Hospital on Thursday evening.
On the same day, another incident occurred in Phulbari (Gogra), near Silapathar town. Five members of a family, namely Dhon Bd Dorji (27), Pradum Bd Dorji (21), Gonga Bd Dorji (55), Monu Maya Dorji (46), and Tiki Maya Dorji (55), fell ill after consuming wild mushrooms. They were initially admitted to Silapathar Model Hospital but were later referred to Assam Medical College & Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh for further treatment.
According to a report from the District Health Department, the affected individuals had consumed mushroom curry on the night of June 20. Shortly after consumption, they experienced symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and severe abdominal cramps, which led to their hospitalization. The report stated that the patients had suffered from poisoning due to the consumption of poisonous mushrooms.
In response to these incidents, the District Health Department, led by Dhemaji's Joint Director of Health Services, Dr. Saurav Kr Gogoi, and Chief Medical Officer (CD), Dr. Kishore Kr Kaman, conducted day-long awareness camps on Friday. The doctors issued warnings to the public, particularly those residing in rural areas, advising them against consuming unidentified mushrooms. They emphasized that during this season, mushrooms grow abundantly in the wild, and lack of knowledge often leads rural residents to mistakenly collect and consume toxic varieties.
Medical professionals have highlighted that symptoms of mushroom poisoning can range from gastric issues to life-threatening organ failure, which can result in death. It is worth noting that in certain cases, severe symptoms may not manifest immediately after consuming toxic mushrooms, but the toxins can cause significant damage to vital internal organs like the kidneys and liver.
The incidents serve as a reminder for the public to exercise caution and seek expert guidance or assistance before consuming any wild mushrooms, especially if they are unfamiliar with their identification. Raising awareness about the risks associated with consuming unidentified mushrooms is essential for preventing further cases of mushroom poisoning and safeguarding the well-being of individuals in the region.
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