CADIZ City — Food poisoning cases in this city have climbed to 51 after residents reportedly consumed “aloy” and “tulingan” fish, prompting authorities to declare a health emergency and issue a public advisory against eating the fish.
Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. said the fish involved in the incident were delivered from Iloilo during Holy Week and later sold in local markets, raising concerns over possible lapses in handling and storage.
According to the City Health Office (CHO), all affected individuals experienced adverse reactions after consuming the fish and were rushed to medical facilities for treatment.
Of the total cases, 39 patients were brought to the Cadiz Primary Health Facility, while 12 were admitted to the Cadiz District Hospital.
City Health Officer Dr. Maria Victoria Banes reported that five patients suffered anaphylactic shock, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Three of them have since stabilized, while two remain under medical care.
Symptoms observed among patients included skin rashes, redness, itching, swelling, headaches, palpitations, difficulty breathing, and eye irritation—signs consistent with allergic reactions or possible histamine poisoning.
Health authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the outbreak. Fish samples collected from local markets have been sent for laboratory examination.
Initial findings point to possible histamine poisoning, which occurs when fish is improperly stored after being caught, leading to the buildup of histamine that can trigger allergic-like reactions.
The CHO has strongly advised residents to temporarily avoid buying, preparing, or consuming “aloy” and “tulingan” fish until further notice.
Residents experiencing symptoms are urged to seek immediate medical attention and report similar cases to health authorities.
Vendors and suppliers have also been directed to suspend the sale and distribution of the fish as a precautionary measure.
Authorities continue to call on the public to remain vigilant as monitoring and investigations are ongoing to ensure public health and safety./PN
