Onuminya Innocent
No fewer than 24 persons have been confirmed dead as a result of suspected case of food poisoning in Sokoto State.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ali Inname, disclosed this in a statement yesterday, saying the victims were within a single household in Danzanke village of Bargaja ward, Isa Local Government Area of the state.
The commissioner said the deceased used fertilizer type known as “Gishirin Lalle in Hausa”, as seasoning in cooking food, instead of common salt.
“Regrettably, the entire family who had the meal lost their lives, except two female members, who merely tested the food and are currently responding to treatment, with very good chance of survival.
“Attempts to save the lives of all the affected people by providing the needed medical care, proved abortive,” Inname stated.
The commissioner, therefore warned the general public to “learn from this incidence and always be cautious in order to prevent such reoccurrence in their families, as now experienced in Sokoto state and Zamfara earlier in the year.
“It is very important for the public to know that this incidence, though preventable and not contagious, is extremely fatal even with best of medical attention and care,” he further stated.
He also advised the general public to always separate storage sites for food items from other agricultural and cosmetic items.
“Double check all ingredients and food stuff before use.
Food stores should be secured to prevent access to flies. Cooked foods and water sources should be secured.
Surroundings should be cleared to get rid of or reduce flies and other vectors.
“Hands should be washed regularly with soap and water.
Wells should have platforms to prevent contamination from feces of surface water after rainfall.
“Water should be boiled before use especially in rural areas.
Report to hospital or isolation camp in your area early when you observe any unusual symptoms or unusual condition.” Inname advised.
He, however, expressed the state government’s heartfelt condolences to the relations of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.
