Bangkok: Beware, spicy food lovers! Parasites can infest your eyes after eating "shrimp marinated in fish sauce." A cautionary tale! While shrimp marinated in fish sauce may be a favorite dish for many, it harbors dangers. A woman shared her experience of eating shrimp marinated in fish sauce for two consecutive days, resulting in parasites burrowing into her eyelid and requiring emergency surgery, despite making it at home.
According to Thai News Agency, Ploy, an online seller, shared her experience of contracting a parasitic infection after consuming homemade shrimp marinated in fish sauce for two consecutive days. She was forced to undergo emergency surgery as the infection spread to her eyelid. This incident occurred in October of last year (2025). When she consulted a doctor, she was asked if she had consumed any raw food, such as shrimp marinated in fish sauce. Initially hesitant, she admitted to eating it for two days in a row. The doctor subsequently informed her of the need for surgery due to the spread of the parasitic infection.
The Food and Water Sanitation Division of the Department of Health has issued a warning regarding the consumption of shrimp marinated in fish sauce, highlighting the serious risk of potentially fatal infections. The common belief that "fish sauce and lime juice" can kill germs is false. There is also a risk of Vibrio infection, which can result in severe food poisoning. Symptoms typically manifest 1-3 days after consumption and may include diarrhea, high fever, and potentially bloodstream infection. Individuals at high risk include the elderly, those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, and those with compromised immune systems. As a precaution, it is recommended to thoroughly cook shrimp, avoid consuming it raw, and opt for clean establishments to ensure safety.