Food poisoning kills 24 family members in Sokoto

Twenty four members of a family have died in Sokoto State after taking some poisonous food, the state Commissioner for Health, Ali Inname, has said.

He said the incident occurred on Monday in Danzanke village of Bargaja ward, Isa Local Government Area of the state.

The 24 victims were members of an extended family living together on a compound.

Ali said a fertiliser popularly called ‘Gishirin Lalle’ in Hausa was used as food seasoning.

He said the fertiliser was thought to be 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,” the commissioner told NAN on Tuesday.

“Attempts to save the lives of all the affected people by providing the needed medical care proved abortive.”

The commissioner advised the public to keep away poisonous chemicals from easy reach.

He advised residents of the state to always separate storage sites for food items from other agricultural and cosmetic items, and to carefully check all ingredients and foodstuff before use.

“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,” Ali added.

“Report to health facility or isolation camp in your area early when you observe any unusual symptoms or unusual condition,” Inname appealed to residents.”