ELEVEN elementary school students in Asturias town, northwest Cebu, fell ill after consuming homemade candies, which prompted authorities to issue an advisory on food handling and safety in response.
In a report dated Sept. 19, 2023, the Department of Health in Central Visayas (DOH 7) confirmed suspected food poisoning in Asturias.
The health agency is awaiting the results of lab tests on samples from homemade candies believed to be the source of the illness.
On Sept. 15, a total of 11 third-grade students from a school in Barangay Manguiao were admitted to a hospital with symptoms like abdominal discomfort, vomiting, weakness, and sunken eyeballs. All students have recovered and were discharged the same day.
In a statement, Asturias Mayor Dana Andrew Dumdum expressed his concern over the incident, emphasizing the community’s responsibility to ensure the safety of its members, particularly the youth.
Measures
Dumdum stressed the importance of caution when consuming homemade or unfamiliar food products and urged prioritizing safety and vigilance regarding the origins of such items.
“We understand the concerns and questions that may arise from such an incident, and we want to assure the public that we will be transparent throughout the investigation process,” he said on Sept. 15.
As part of proactive measures, Dumdum said the municipality of Asturias is considering a review of food safety regulations, including potential inspections in schools, to enhance safety protocols.
The health agency has encouraged the public to implement rigorous sanitation practices during food preparation, including thorough handwashing, proper utensil sterilization, and the use of food-grade gloves, hairnets, and mouth covers.
DOH 7 also advises sourcing fresh ingredients from reputable establishments, avoiding cross-contamination between cooked and raw foods, and adhering to proper food storage procedures.
Foodborne illnesses, as per the World Health Organization, result from food contamination during production, delivery and consumption, including unsafe storage and processing. Symptoms encompass stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever.
The DOH urges swift medical attention from the nearest primary care provider or health center for those experiencing such symptoms.