Tilapia Scandal in Lake Sebu, Philippines
Health authorities in South Cotabato urged anew residents on Wednesday to refrain from buying and consuming dried Tilapia products sourced from the fish kill-hit Lake Sebu town to avoid possible poisoning.
Dr. Rogelio Aturdido, South Cotabato provincial health officer, said the Tilapia affected by the “kamahong” fish kill in Lake Sebu since last week are considered contaminated and might cause food poisoning.
“These are considered as double dead Tilapia so we should not consume them for safety reasons,” he said.
For those who already consumed dried Tilapia from the area, he said they should immediately seek treatment if they suffer from food poisoning symptoms.
He said victims of food poisoning may suffer from nausea, stomach ache, vomiting and diarrhea.
“This might be deadly or cause death if not treated right away,” the official said.
The health official issued the warning after the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist reported that it received reports that some of the Tilapia that were affected by the fish kill were still harvested and processed into dried products by some residents.
“Some of these dried Tilapia could now be out in the markets,” said Provincial Agriculturist Reynaldo Legaste.