The Sokoto State Commissioner of Health, Dr Ali Inname, has announced the death of 24 family members who were victims of food poisoning.
In a statement on Monday in Sokoto, the commissioner said that the incident occurred in Danzanke village in Bargaja ward of Isa Local Government Area.
He explained that the incident was caused by the use of a fertiliser type of chemical, popularly called “Gishirin Lalle” as a seasoning in domestic family cooking, which was considered as common salt.
“Regrettably, the entire family who ate the meal lost their lives, except two female members, who merely tasted the food and are currently responding to treatment, with very good chances of survival.
“Attempts to save the lives of all the affected people by providing the needed medical care proved abortive,” Inname said.
The commissioner urged the public to learn from the incident and keep away such poisonous chemicals from easy reach.
He appealed to the people to always be cautious to prevent reoccurrence in their families.
He said that it was very important for the public to know that the incidence was preventable and not contagious, as it was extremely fatal, even with the best medical attention given to the victims.
Inname advised the people to always separate storage sites for food items from other agricultural and cosmetic items, and to carefully check all ingredients and foodstuff before use.
He stressed that food stores should be secured to prevent access to flies, while cooked food and water sources should be secured.
Inname called on the people to safeguard their surroundings to be clean and reduce flies and other vectors and wash hands regularly with soap and water.
“Wells should have covers to prevent contamination from faces of surface water after rainfall, the water should be boiled before use, especially in rural areas.
“Report to health facility or isolation camp in your area early when you observe any unusual symptoms or unusual condition,” Inname appealed to residents. ##
