Woman nearly dies after eating fermented swordfish contaminated with botulism

A 24-year-old woman from Arizona nearly lost her life after eating a tiny piece of fermented swordfish. Trinity Peterson-Mayes was struck by botulism, a rare illness that left her paralysed and fighting to breathe. Doctors say she is now recovering and could leave hospital as soon as Wednesday.

Peterson-Mayes first noticed something was wrong when she struggled to swallow water and nearly choked on coffee. Within hours, her condition worsened, and she lost consciousness. The paralysis spread to her breathing muscles, forcing her onto a respirator.

Two friends who shared the same fermented swordfish also fell ill with botulism. Both were briefly hospitalised but have since recovered. Nationwide, only about two dozen cases of foodborne botulism are reported each year, making it an extremely rare disease.

Her mother launched an online fundraiser to help cover the mounting medical bills. Peterson-Mayes now plans to change her diet, cutting out fish like sushi to avoid any future risks.

Peterson-Mayes survived a life-threatening illness that attacks the nervous system. Her case highlights the dangers of improperly prepared fermented foods. She is expected to leave hospital this week, with a newfound caution about what she eats.