Food poisoning downs 46 in Iloilo

CEBU, Philippines – At least 46 people fell ill due to alleged food poisoning in Sta. Barbara town, Iloilo.

Inspector Ramil Jacaba, Sta. Barbara Police chief, said all victims attended a birthday at Bangga Dama of Barangay San Sebastian. The started to feel ill early Monday morning until late afternoon.

Most of the victims were rushed to the Western Visayas Sanitarium in Sta. Barbara, while others sought medical aid at the Seamen’s Hospital in Iloilo City.

Initially, most of the victims claimed they ate spaghetti at a children’s party tendered by the Agraviador family, but the others attested they have not eaten spaghetti but just consumed fried chicken.

Several hours later, they complained of stomach ache and vomited. While some felt no stomach pain, they experienced fever. As of yesterday, most of the victims were already out of hospital confinement and others will be discharged soon.

Jacaba said the town’s sanitary inspector already took samples of spaghetti, fried chicken, and salad served during the party.

The family claimed they cooked the food on the same day that it was served. “We will just wait for the result of the investigation,” Jacaba said.