The Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public to take extra precaution in eating food, especially from unknown sources.
The DOH stressed out the importance of food safety on acquiring and intake of unknown products as reports showed at least 1,925 people were allegedly poisoned in Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Sur on July 10, after eating candies.
Currently, 66 patients are still admitted in different hospitals for observation.
“The DOH is closely coordinating with the hospitals of Caraga Region in monitoring the affected patients. Samples from the candies were taken to Food and Drug Administration [FDA] for further analysis. All hospitals were alerted in Caraga Region for possible admission of cases.” Health Secretary Janette P. Loreto-Garin said.
It was reported that the victims of the alleged food poisoning on July 10, in Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Sur were rushed to the hospital after experiencing dizziness and vomiting.
The patients either had bought or were given free candies from unknown vendors in different cities. The case was coordinated with Philippine National Police to trace the possible source of the said candies.
Garin reminded the public: To buy only from reputable sources; consumers must also check the physical appearance/condition of the products; avoid buying dented, bulging or deformed canned good; check open date markings (expiry date/consume before date/ or best before date) for perishable products; always double check holiday promo items (Buy 1 Take 1 or Freebies), which should still be of good quality and within safety guarantee period.
She added, “ Most important, avoid unlabeled repacked food products that are being sold, claiming that these are the same as or made by the manufacturers of known brands or products. Repacked food products must also bear proper label information and must be prepared in a hygienic facility and manner”.
“We call on the public to be aware of the initial signs and symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness and impaired or loss of consciousness. Whether mild or severe, the patient should be immediately brought to the nearest hospital. Poisoning is deadly and immediate medical attention is warranted,” Garin concluded.