• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Local health authorities have advised the public to temporarily refrain from eating “aloy” fish, after 20 residents of Cadiz City and Hinigaran in Negros Occidental experienced severe allergic reactions for consuming such fish.
Of the 17 victims in Cadiz City, Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. said that two are still being treated at the Cadiz District Hospital as of Tuesday, April 7.
Mayor Grace Arceo also temporarily prohibited the sale and consumption of “aloy” fish in Hinigaran after three town residents experienced difficult breathing, following eating of such fish.
One of the victims is being treated at the Hinigaran Medical Clinic for severe allergic reactions while the two others have already been sent home.
Initial investigation of Cadiz City government indicated that the fish was transported from Iloilo to Cadiz City.
The supply was originally sold to local dried fish producers.
For still unknown reasons, it was sold as fresh in the local market.
Escalante said he believes that the fish was also brought to other areas in Negros Occidental.
Authorities have already collected fish samples and submitted them for toxicological examination.
A task force was formed by Escalante to determine the possible contamination and improper handling of fish products.
In an advisory, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources said it is also conducting a full investigation on the reported food poisoning cases in Cadiz City linked to the consumption of “aloy” fish, in coordination with local authorities.
BFAR said its initial findings point to possible scombroid fish poisoning, a condition not by the fish itself, but improper handling and storage.
Authorities explained that when fish are not kept adequately chilled, especially under high temperatures, they can develop elevated histamine levels that remain even after cooking.
BFAR advised vendors to maintain proper chilling practices while consumers should avoid fish with unusual taste, odor or texture. | GB
