Food poisoning kills family of seven in Sokoto

In Runjin Barmo village, Kajiji District, Shagari Local Government Area, Sokoto State, at least seven family members have reportedly died of food poisoning after consuming contaminated cassava delicacy, on August 7, 2024.

This information was released in a statement signed by the Information Officer at the State Ministry of Health, Nura Bello, on behalf of the Health Commissioner, on the evening of August 11, 2024.

The statement disclosed that the village head, Malam Muhammadu Modi,  told Commissioner for Health, Hajiya Asabe Balarabe and her delegation that the victims had eaten the contaminated cassava meal for dinner.

He stated: “The victims comprised the Father, Malam Abubakar, his wife, A’ishatu Abubakar and their 5 Children.

“The incident happened last Wednesday and the cause of the death is yet to be confirmed.

He explained that no illness was reported in four households that consumed the suspected cassava in the village.

In her remarks, the state Commissioner for Health stated they were visiting the village to investigate the cause of the incident.

She added that they would report their findings to the state government for appropriate action.

The commissioner stated the ministry would collect samples from a teenager who survived after eating the suspected cassava meal.

On the governor’s behalf, she offered condolences and prayed to Allah for the forgiveness of those who lost their lives.

She urged residents to promptly report unusual diseases for the ministry’s intervention.

Food poisoning in Nigeria

Food poisoning is a common and often serious health problem caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages.

Contaminants can include bacteria, viruses, parasites, toxins, and chemicals. Symptoms of food poisoning typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.

In severe cases, it can lead to long-term health problems or even death.

Food poisoning remains a significant public health issue in Nigeria, with various outbreaks leading to severe consequences.

Notable instances of food poisoning in Nigeria

Kwara State (August 2024): Four people, including a 70-year-old woman, her son, and grandchildren, died after eating contaminated amala, made from cassava flour.

The cassava used was likely under-processed, leading to chemical food poisoning.

This incident highlighted the risks of inadequate food processing and poor hygiene in some communities.

Kano State (April 2024): A food poisoning event in Kano led to the deaths of at least 10 people, with over 400 others hospitalized.

The incident was linked to the consumption of food contaminated with toxic chemicals.

The state government responded by providing medical care and launching an investigation into the sources of contamination.

Street Food Safety Concerns: In urban areas, particularly with street food, there have been multiple reports of food poisoning.

This is often due to poor hygiene and the use of contaminated water or ingredients.

Street food vendors often operate in environments with inadequate sanitation, leading to bacterial and viral contamination of food.

Causes and prevention

Causes: Common causes of food poisoning in Nigeria include the consumption of improperly processed foods and the use of contaminated water.

Poor personal and environmental hygiene, along with improper food storage, also contribute to the problem.

Prevention: Addressing food poisoning requires improving food safety practices, ensuring better environmental sanitation, and conducting regular inspections of food vendors.

Public awareness campaigns about hygiene and food safety can also play a crucial role.

The Nigerian government is actively working to improve food safety and sanitation.

These efforts are crucial in preventing further outbreaks of food poisoning in the country.

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