Hyderabad Eateries Face Health Risks: 10 Cases of Rat and Cockroach Infestations Found

The food safety team recently inspected several restaurants in Hyderabad and found 10 cases of rat and cockroach infestations, which is worrying for the city’s health.

These pests can carry harmful germs, viruses, and parasites that may lead to food poisoning, typhoid, and even leprosy, as reported by TOI.

Experts caution that rat and cockroach infestations flourish in unsanitary environments, posing a serious health risk.

In just the first ten days of October, food safety officials discovered infestations at several locations, including Sukha Sagar Udupi Veg Hotel, Hotel Fiza and Bakers in Bahadurpura, and the canteen at Sri Sri Holistic Hospitals in Kukatpally.

The presence of these pests signals poor hygiene and poses risks of serious health issues, including kidney damage from frequent gastrointestinal infections.

Dr. Kiran Madhala from the Indian Medical Association (IMA) stated, "Infestations can lead to bacterial and parasitic diseases, with food prepared in unsanitary conditions causing food poisoning within six to 48 hours," as reported by TOI.

Dr. Kiran explained that symptoms may begin with vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, potentially escalating to organ damage. Rat infestations are especially troubling because they can transmit harmful bacteria through urine, leading to kidney issues.

The TOI report also featured insights from Dr. G. Srinivas, a healthcare expert, who emphasised the diseases associated with these infestations. He pointed out that illnesses like leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis, cryptosporidiosis, and salmonellosis can be transmitted through rodent urine and droppings.

Furthermore, he noted that cockroach infestations can lead to infections from Clostridium perfringens, norovirus, salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus.