Mystery illness eats into vegetable sales in Eluru

Eluru (Andhra Pradesh) : Vegetable vendors here say outbreak of mystery illness has dipped the sales of leafy vegetables in Eluru.

"Since 4-5 days, leafy vegetables are not moving. People are not coming to buy vegetables. We are just sitting with them, without any business," said a vendor.

The headquarters of West Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh has seen people developing epileptic fits, forgetfulness, anxiety, vomiting, headache and back pain.

Experts have already taken samples of rice, fish, and meat, alongside soil, for investigation and causes are yet to be conclusively identified.

As many as 14 expert agencies have asked for more time to properly investigate the samples.

Following the outbreak of illness people are exercising caution. The doctors have advised washing vegetables with salt water before cooking.

Mohan, the Superintendent of West Godavari district hospital, said that people in Eluru have been advised to wash the vegetables thoroughly before use.

IANS report with edits