BACOLOD City — Six individuals from Purok Roma, Barangay Singcang-Airport here were reported to have suffered suspected shellfish poisoning after consuming seashells.
Based on initial reports, the mother of the household gathered shellfish on March 19. The collected seashells were cooked and eaten the following morning, March 20.
Later that afternoon, family members, along with a friend who also shared the meal, began experiencing symptoms of illness.
Punong Barangay Rosinie Distrito said the affected individuals complained of stomach pain, chills, and fever, prompting them to seek immediate medical attention. Three of the victims were hospitalized due to the severity of their condition.
As of this writing, only one patient remains confined in a government hospital in the city, while the others have already been discharged.
The City Health Office (CHO) has conducted an investigation at the victims’ residence, including the collection of water samples from both the sea and the household’s drinking water supply to determine the possible source of contamination.
Distrito urged residents, especially those living in coastal areas, to temporarily refrain from collecting shellfish along the shoreline, particularly in areas with visible waste or pollution. She also advised residents to immediately report to barangay officials if they experience symptoms related to food poisoning.
In the meantime, authorities continue to discourage shellfish gathering along the shoreline and recommend collecting only from cleaner, deeper coastal waters./PN
