In Yen Bai, a 42-year-old man consumed a caterpillar and experienced severe symptoms shortly after. He was in critical condition and was admitted to Central Military Hospital 108 for intensive medical treatment.
At the hospital, the patient received resuscitation, fluid infusion, detoxification, and close monitoring of his organ function. Fortunately, his condition has since stabilized, his muscle weakness has improved, and his kidney function has returned to normal.
Dr. Pham Dang Hai from the Department of Internal Medicine and Poison Control explained that consuming ban mou worms is a common belief among many people for enhancing health. However, this insect contains a toxic substance called cantharidin which can lead to poisoning and severe symptoms.
Ban mou worms are black beetles with a small body and heart-shaped head often found in the wild in Vietnam. Symptoms of cantharidin poisoning include blister formation on the skin, gastrointestinal damage, multi-organ dysfunction and even death.
To prevent such incidents doctors advise against eating unfamiliar insects and urge people to thoroughly inspect fruits and vegetables before consumption to avoid accidentally consuming moth worms.