A total of nine (9) individuals, mostly children, were rushed to the hospital this week due to suspected food poisoning after eating puffer fish Barangay Tambo, Libon, Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PESU) said.
Anthony Ludovice, Provincial Health Office – Rural Sanitation Inspector, added that two families living together, have been admitted at the Pantao District Hospital (PDH).
As per PHO-PESU’s report, Libon Rural Health Unit has confirmed three (3) deaths, three adults of the families, age ranging from 36 to 47 years old; while six (6) other individuals were admitted at the hospital after the date of occurrence, last May 8.
One (1) have reportedly died at home, while two (2) have died at the PDH.
As of 4 o’clock in the afternoon today, three patients remain at the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BHRMC), while the other three were already discharged.
All nine victims have reportedly experienced the same symptoms like dizziness, headache, shortness of breathe and the tingling sensation of extremities.
PESU has emphasized that they are currently in close coordination with Libon RHU, awaiting updates on the current status of the victims, while PESU continues their strict monitoring and investigation.
Meanwhile, PHO advises the public to avoid buying, catching, and eating puffer fish as it is extremely poisonous and may later cause death when ingested.
(Source: Albay PIO)