Rayagada, March 25: A shocking incident has been reported from the tribal-dominated Rayagada district, where a youth fell seriously ill after allegedly swallowing a leech while drinking stream water.

The incident took place in Railima village under Kalyansinghpur block. The youth, identified as Shyam Huika, had gone to the nearby forest with his friends to collect firewood. Due to extreme heat, he felt thirsty and drank water from a stream.

However, unknowingly, a leech entered his body while consuming the water. Within a few hours, his health condition deteriorated, leaving him critically ill.

He was initially rushed to the Kalyansinghpur Community Health Centre for treatment. After primary care, doctors referred him to the district headquarters hospital for further treatment.

The condition of the youth remains under observation, and further details are awaited following medical examination.