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Western Pacific: Food/Water Borne Illness Outbreaks
Australia- Recall of unpasteurized cheese
10 August 2010
Australian Food News [edited] [BITES]
A recall has been issued on Cottage Cheese Farm cheeses in Victoria due to inadequate pasteurization of milk used in manufacturing. The recall applies to the following products, in all sizes: Shredded Mozzarella (bags) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Mozzarella (blocks or logs) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Grated Parmagiano (bags) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Shredded Parmagiano (bags) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Bocconcini (tub or pail) - All Use By dates from 29 May 10 to 30 Aug 10 Cherry Bocconcini (tub or pail) - All Use By dates from 29 May 10 to 30 Aug 10 Fior Di Latte (tub) - All Use By dates from 29 May 10 to 30 Aug 10 Pecorino Romano (3kg Wheels) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Full Cream Fetta (pails) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Goats Fetta (pails) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Haloumi (pails and glass jars) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Caprino (bags) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Casa Cavalla (Bag) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10
Cambodia- Arsenic Poisoning, Water
4 August 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited] [ProMed]
A woman in Cambodia admits that she is afraid of her own skin. The surfaces of her palms and feet are encrusted with yellow and black sores. Along with about 260 other residents of a small village, located in Kandal province's Koh Thom district, the woman is suffering from the prolonged effects of arsenic poisoning, which earlier this year led to the deaths of her brother and nephew. According to figures released in July 2010 by the Ministry of Rural Development, 150 000 people living along the Mekong and Bassac rivers were consuming arsenic-contaminated drinking water for at least part of the year. Arsenic can lead to cancer of the lungs, bladder, and skin. After prolonged exposure, skin lesions can develop which can lead to gangrene, and in severe cases amputation. About 80 of the community's 100 wells were found to contain arsenic levels that were 40 to 50 times the limit considered safe by the World Health Organization, and 8 to 10 times the limit considered safe by the Ministry of Rural Development.
Cambodia- Diarrheal Illness, Cholera Suspected
26 July 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited] [ProMED]
An outbreak of acute watery diarrhea cases in Prey Veng provincial prison has stricken 63 inmates, 5 of whom are in serious condition. One inmate died of the illness after being taken to a hospital. It is believed that currently many of the sick prisoners were recovering. A report released by a rights group warned that within the next ten years Cambodia's prisons could be the most overcrowded in the world unless steps are taken to reduce inmate totals. Overcrowding exacerbates poor hygiene and contributes to the spread of illnesses such as diarrhea.
Malaysia- Brucellosis, caprine, human
25 July 2010
International Society for Infectious Diseases [edited] [BITES]
Currently, goat milk suppliers are being inspected after a 7-year-old boy became the first person to be infected with brucellosis. Brucellosis is caused by the Brucella bacterium and is a disease mainly found in cattle, swine, goats, and sheep. The boy fell sick after drinking raw goat's milk. He was admitted to a private hospital after coming down with a fever on the 24th of April, 2010. Brucellosis is also called Bang's disease, or undulant fever, and is a highly contagious disease caused by ingestion of unsterilized milk or meat from infected animals, or close contact with their secretions. An awareness campaign will be held on the 27th of July, 2010 by the government departments and the municipal councils.
Thailand- Cholera
13 July 2010
Mizzima.com [edited] [ProMED]
Cholera, which is spread to humans through contaminated drinking water and/or food, has been spreading through the Mae La refugee camp since late May 2010. More than 300 residents of the camp had received treatment. The camp is home to almost 40,000 refugees. Many people are suffering from the disease, which is beyond the capacity of the camp to handle. Many people in the camp are experiencing low standards of living and are having difficulties accessing clean foods and water.
China- MELAMINE CONTAMINATION, MILK PRODUCTS
9 July 2010
The New York Times [edited] [ProMED]
Two years after a national health scare over melamine-tainted milk products devasted China's dairy industry and called food safety in the US into question, inspectors in western China's Qinghai Province have seized 76 tons of dairy ingredients laced with the same industrial chemical. The seizure appeared to involve products that had escaped a nationwide recall of dairy foods after the 2008 scandal, which killed at least 6 children and sickened 294,000 others. Melamine, which is used in concrete, fertilizer and plastics, mimics protein in some food-quality tests, and Chinese manufacturers had added the chemical to ingredients used in infant formula, chocolate, pet and animal feeds to make them appear more nutritious. When eaten in sufficient quantity, however, melamine can cause permanent kidney damage.
Related Stories:
8 July 2010- China- dairy products found tainted with melamine BBC News [edited] [BITES]
Vietnam- Cholera in Ha Noi
6 July 2010
VOVNews [edited] [ProMED]
Ha Noi has reported 144 cases of acute diarrhea since June 13, 2010. Ha Noi's Department of Health has met with the districts' preventive health centers in response. Most patients contracted the disease by eating dog meat with raw shrimp paste and fresh vegetables (60.5%) and vermicelli and shellfish soup (6%). Six out of every eight people have been hospitalized due to acute diarrhea from eating dog meat.
Taiwan- Dried tofu suspected cause of botulism cases
02 July 2010
barfblog [edited] [BITES]
It is suspected by health officials in Taiwan that dried tofu in vacuum-sealed plastic sacks were the cause of a series of botulinum poisoning cases. Since April this year, one person was killed, five remain hospitalized and five others have been discharged from hospitals after treatment for botulinum poisoning.
Vietnam-Cholera heavily hits Mekong delta in Vietnam
26 June 2010
Saigon-gpdaily.com [edited] [ProMED]
Provinces in the Mekong delta are experiencing near-epidemic levels of cholera with over 50 people infected and over 500 persons suffering from acute diarrhea. Four Mekong delta provinces of Ben Tre, Tien Giang, An Giang and City Can Tho reported cases. Ben Tre is one of eight provinces with fifty cases and over 500 acute diarrhea patients reported. The Ministry of Health noted that the current strain of V.chlerae and type O1 is different from that which caused the acute intestinal disease in Vietnam prior to 2007 and the new type has a longer lifespan in the environment.
10 August 2010
Australian Food News [edited] [BITES]
A recall has been issued on Cottage Cheese Farm cheeses in Victoria due to inadequate pasteurization of milk used in manufacturing. The recall applies to the following products, in all sizes: Shredded Mozzarella (bags) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Mozzarella (blocks or logs) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Grated Parmagiano (bags) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Shredded Parmagiano (bags) - All Use By dates from 31 May 10 to 01 Sep 10 Bocconcini (tub or pail) - All Use By dates from 29 May 10 to 30 Aug 10 Cherry Bocconcini (tub or pail) - All Use By dates from 29 May 10 to 30 Aug 10 Fior Di Latte (tub) - All Use By dates from 29 May 10 to 30 Aug 10 Pecorino Romano (3kg Wheels) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Full Cream Fetta (pails) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Goats Fetta (pails) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Haloumi (pails and glass jars) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Caprino (bags) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10 Casa Cavalla (Bag) - All Dates of Manufacture from 01 May 10 to 02 Aug 10
Cambodia- Arsenic Poisoning, Water
4 August 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited] [ProMed]
A woman in Cambodia admits that she is afraid of her own skin. The surfaces of her palms and feet are encrusted with yellow and black sores. Along with about 260 other residents of a small village, located in Kandal province's Koh Thom district, the woman is suffering from the prolonged effects of arsenic poisoning, which earlier this year led to the deaths of her brother and nephew. According to figures released in July 2010 by the Ministry of Rural Development, 150 000 people living along the Mekong and Bassac rivers were consuming arsenic-contaminated drinking water for at least part of the year. Arsenic can lead to cancer of the lungs, bladder, and skin. After prolonged exposure, skin lesions can develop which can lead to gangrene, and in severe cases amputation. About 80 of the community's 100 wells were found to contain arsenic levels that were 40 to 50 times the limit considered safe by the World Health Organization, and 8 to 10 times the limit considered safe by the Ministry of Rural Development.
Cambodia- Diarrheal Illness, Cholera Suspected
26 July 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited] [ProMED]
An outbreak of acute watery diarrhea cases in Prey Veng provincial prison has stricken 63 inmates, 5 of whom are in serious condition. One inmate died of the illness after being taken to a hospital. It is believed that currently many of the sick prisoners were recovering. A report released by a rights group warned that within the next ten years Cambodia's prisons could be the most overcrowded in the world unless steps are taken to reduce inmate totals. Overcrowding exacerbates poor hygiene and contributes to the spread of illnesses such as diarrhea.
Malaysia- Brucellosis, caprine, human
25 July 2010
International Society for Infectious Diseases [edited] [BITES]
Currently, goat milk suppliers are being inspected after a 7-year-old boy became the first person to be infected with brucellosis. Brucellosis is caused by the Brucella bacterium and is a disease mainly found in cattle, swine, goats, and sheep. The boy fell sick after drinking raw goat's milk. He was admitted to a private hospital after coming down with a fever on the 24th of April, 2010. Brucellosis is also called Bang's disease, or undulant fever, and is a highly contagious disease caused by ingestion of unsterilized milk or meat from infected animals, or close contact with their secretions. An awareness campaign will be held on the 27th of July, 2010 by the government departments and the municipal councils.
Thailand- Cholera
13 July 2010
Mizzima.com [edited] [ProMED]
Cholera, which is spread to humans through contaminated drinking water and/or food, has been spreading through the Mae La refugee camp since late May 2010. More than 300 residents of the camp had received treatment. The camp is home to almost 40,000 refugees. Many people are suffering from the disease, which is beyond the capacity of the camp to handle. Many people in the camp are experiencing low standards of living and are having difficulties accessing clean foods and water.
China- MELAMINE CONTAMINATION, MILK PRODUCTS
9 July 2010
The New York Times [edited] [ProMED]
Two years after a national health scare over melamine-tainted milk products devasted China's dairy industry and called food safety in the US into question, inspectors in western China's Qinghai Province have seized 76 tons of dairy ingredients laced with the same industrial chemical. The seizure appeared to involve products that had escaped a nationwide recall of dairy foods after the 2008 scandal, which killed at least 6 children and sickened 294,000 others. Melamine, which is used in concrete, fertilizer and plastics, mimics protein in some food-quality tests, and Chinese manufacturers had added the chemical to ingredients used in infant formula, chocolate, pet and animal feeds to make them appear more nutritious. When eaten in sufficient quantity, however, melamine can cause permanent kidney damage.
Related Stories:
8 July 2010- China- dairy products found tainted with melamine BBC News [edited] [BITES]
Vietnam- Cholera in Ha Noi
6 July 2010
VOVNews [edited] [ProMED]
Ha Noi has reported 144 cases of acute diarrhea since June 13, 2010. Ha Noi's Department of Health has met with the districts' preventive health centers in response. Most patients contracted the disease by eating dog meat with raw shrimp paste and fresh vegetables (60.5%) and vermicelli and shellfish soup (6%). Six out of every eight people have been hospitalized due to acute diarrhea from eating dog meat.
Taiwan- Dried tofu suspected cause of botulism cases
02 July 2010
barfblog [edited] [BITES]
It is suspected by health officials in Taiwan that dried tofu in vacuum-sealed plastic sacks were the cause of a series of botulinum poisoning cases. Since April this year, one person was killed, five remain hospitalized and five others have been discharged from hospitals after treatment for botulinum poisoning.
Vietnam-Cholera heavily hits Mekong delta in Vietnam
26 June 2010
Saigon-gpdaily.com [edited] [ProMED]
Provinces in the Mekong delta are experiencing near-epidemic levels of cholera with over 50 people infected and over 500 persons suffering from acute diarrhea. Four Mekong delta provinces of Ben Tre, Tien Giang, An Giang and City Can Tho reported cases. Ben Tre is one of eight provinces with fifty cases and over 500 acute diarrhea patients reported. The Ministry of Health noted that the current strain of V.chlerae and type O1 is different from that which caused the acute intestinal disease in Vietnam prior to 2007 and the new type has a longer lifespan in the environment.
Vietnam- More diarrhea cases reported in Ben Tre
17 Jun 2010
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
The Ben Tre provincial centre for disease prevention and control has diagnosed a case of acute diarrhea as Vibrio cholerae, which raises the total number of cases in the province to 50.
The number of reported cases has been dropping for the last 3 weeks due to the effective preventative measures introduced by the province, including banning the production of ice and restricting households with infected people from selling food and drink.
Acute diarrhea patients are treated in the same way as V. cholerae patients without having to wait for the diagnostic results.
Related Stories:
05 June 2010- Cholera update
Thanh Nien News, Viet Nam News Agency (VNA)/Tuoi Tre report [edited][ProMed]
17 Jun 2010
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
The Ben Tre provincial centre for disease prevention and control has diagnosed a case of acute diarrhea as Vibrio cholerae, which raises the total number of cases in the province to 50.
The number of reported cases has been dropping for the last 3 weeks due to the effective preventative measures introduced by the province, including banning the production of ice and restricting households with infected people from selling food and drink.
Acute diarrhea patients are treated in the same way as V. cholerae patients without having to wait for the diagnostic results.
Related Stories:
05 June 2010- Cholera update
Thanh Nien News, Viet Nam News Agency (VNA)/Tuoi Tre report [edited][ProMed]
03 Jun 2010- Cholera
Viet Nam Ministry of Health [in Vietnamese, trans. & summ.
Mod.QCN, edited][ProMed]
Mod.QCN, edited][ProMed]
22 May 2010- Cholera
Thanh Nien News, Viet Nam News Agency (VNA) report [edited][ProMed]
A health official reportedly said Friday [21 May 2010] that 3 more patients with cholera have been recorded in Ben Tre [province], increasing the number of patients with the disease in the Mekong Delta province to 25 this year [2010].
The provincial Preventive Health Center is cooperating with health clinics at districts where the patients live to test water samples and instruct local people about preventive measures, officials were quoted as saying.
Ben Tre is one of 8 provinces and cities to be hit by the acute intestinal infection so far this year [2010]. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are among the affected localities.
15 May 2010- Cholera threatens north Vietnam
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
14 May 2010- The second case of acute diarrhea confirmed in Hai Duong
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
A health official reportedly said Friday [21 May 2010] that 3 more patients with cholera have been recorded in Ben Tre [province], increasing the number of patients with the disease in the Mekong Delta province to 25 this year [2010].
The provincial Preventive Health Center is cooperating with health clinics at districts where the patients live to test water samples and instruct local people about preventive measures, officials were quoted as saying.
Ben Tre is one of 8 provinces and cities to be hit by the acute intestinal infection so far this year [2010]. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are among the affected localities.
15 May 2010- Cholera threatens north Vietnam
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
14 May 2010- The second case of acute diarrhea confirmed in Hai Duong
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
05 May 2010- More Vietnam provinces report cholera outbreaks
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
20 Apr 2010- Ho Chi Minh City announced 2 more cholera patients
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited] [ProMed]
Two more people tested positive for the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, a hospital reportedly said.
The 2 patients are a 25-year-old man, who experienced the symptoms of cholera on [14 Apr 2010] and his 18-month-old son, who [was discharged and] came back his hometown in the Mekong delta province of Tra Vinh on [19 Apr 2010] with his grandmother.
Health workers disinfected the area and raise awareness about the disease and provide residents there with a 5000 liter safe water tank because people living in boats lack hygienic water for drinking.
The city has so far reported 7 cholera cases.
19 Apr 2010- Cholera, Hai Duong
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
13 Apr 2010 The fifth person tests positive for Vibrio cholerae
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited] [ProMed]
samples from food and drinks sold by vendors.
13 Apr 2010- Acute diarrhea spreads to Bac Ninh and Ho Chi Min city
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
10 Apr 2010- Another cholera case found in Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
08 Apr 2010-First cholera patient reported in Ho Chi Minh city
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited] [ProMed]
Two more people tested positive for the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, a hospital reportedly said.
The 2 patients are a 25-year-old man, who experienced the symptoms of cholera on [14 Apr 2010] and his 18-month-old son, who [was discharged and] came back his hometown in the Mekong delta province of Tra Vinh on [19 Apr 2010] with his grandmother.
Health workers disinfected the area and raise awareness about the disease and provide residents there with a 5000 liter safe water tank because people living in boats lack hygienic water for drinking.
The city has so far reported 7 cholera cases.
19 Apr 2010- Cholera, Hai Duong
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
13 Apr 2010 The fifth person tests positive for Vibrio cholerae
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited] [ProMed]
samples from food and drinks sold by vendors.
13 Apr 2010- Acute diarrhea spreads to Bac Ninh and Ho Chi Min city
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
10 Apr 2010- Another cholera case found in Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
08 Apr 2010-First cholera patient reported in Ho Chi Minh city
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [in Vietnamese, trans. & summ. Mod.QCN, edited][ProMed]
The 1st case of cholera in Can Tho is a 38-year-old woman from My Duc Tay commune, Cai Be district, Tien Giang Province.
In the afternoon of 6 Jun 2010, she attended a party at a friend's house in Thuan Thanh, Phu Thu commune, Cai Rang district, Can Tho city. After the party, she had abdominal pain, nausea and acute diarrhea. She was admitted to a hospital. She was confirmed positive for Vibrio cholerae. After treatment, the patient is in stable condition.
Cambodia- Effects of rain on acute watery diarrhea unclear
15 Jun 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
For months, officials in provinces afflicted with outbreaks of acute watery diarrhea, or AWD, have pointed to a longer-than-usual dry season -- and the resulting lack of clean water -- as a factor behind the mounting cases.
The corollary to that argument has been that the illness should begin to abate with the 1st rains of the wet season, which came to some provinces in May [2010] but have not yet hit everywhere.
The director of the Health Department in Kratie province reported at least 10 deaths from AWD or cholera this year [2010] and treated roughly 2000 cases of AWD.
But as reports of AWD continue to come in -- 3 men were said to have died last Friday [11 Jun 2010] in Mondulkiri province, and 24 fell ill over the weekend [12-13 Jun 2010] in Pursat -- some experts say the wet season might not necessarily lead to a drop in cases, and one noted that it could even make things worse, albeit temporarily.
A total of 3 men in Mondulkiri province died on Friday [11 Jun 2010] after contracting acute watery diarrhoea (AWD), and 5 others have been sent to hospital, officials reportedly said.
The 3 men who died on Friday [11 Jun 2010] were all in their 50s, an official said, and added that their illnesses were likely the result of poor hygiene and a lack of sanitation among villagers when consuming food and water.
Meanwhile, officials in Pursat province reportedly said Sunday [13 Jun 2010] that a separate outbreak of AWD in Koh Andeth district led to the hospitalization of 24 people, 18 of whom are in critical condition.
The latest reports continue an ongoing spate of AWD outbreaks in a handful of provinces across the country, including one that claimed 2 more lives in Ratanakkiri last week [week of 7 Jun 2010].
An official, the head of Ratanakkiri's Communicable Diseases Control Department, told media sources Sunday [13 Jun 2010] that the latest deaths brought the toll for the year [2010] to 22 in [Ratanakkiri] province, and that there had been 700 reported cases.
Thailand-Cholera
13 Jun 2010
The Irrawaddy [edited][ProMEd]
A total of 89 refugees in Mae La Refugee Camp have been infected with cholera in 2 weeks, and the number of cases is increasing, a source told media on Friday [11 Jun 2010]. No deaths have been reported.
A total of 72 patients had been discharged from the hospital as of Thursday [10 Jun 2010], and 15 patients remain in the Cholera Treatment Center (CTC), the official reportedly said.
Most of the patients were infected with the virus by drinking water collected from local wells and streams.
The official said an education campaign has started covering infected patients and neighbors, explaining how cholera is contracted, proper medicine, and the role of water and hygienic food.
Restaurants and food vendors in the camp have been banned until authorities can ensure that sites are hygienic and proper procedures are put in place.
15 Jun 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
For months, officials in provinces afflicted with outbreaks of acute watery diarrhea, or AWD, have pointed to a longer-than-usual dry season -- and the resulting lack of clean water -- as a factor behind the mounting cases.
The corollary to that argument has been that the illness should begin to abate with the 1st rains of the wet season, which came to some provinces in May [2010] but have not yet hit everywhere.
The director of the Health Department in Kratie province reported at least 10 deaths from AWD or cholera this year [2010] and treated roughly 2000 cases of AWD.
But as reports of AWD continue to come in -- 3 men were said to have died last Friday [11 Jun 2010] in Mondulkiri province, and 24 fell ill over the weekend [12-13 Jun 2010] in Pursat -- some experts say the wet season might not necessarily lead to a drop in cases, and one noted that it could even make things worse, albeit temporarily.
Related Stories
14 Jun 2010- Diarrheal illness
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed] A total of 3 men in Mondulkiri province died on Friday [11 Jun 2010] after contracting acute watery diarrhoea (AWD), and 5 others have been sent to hospital, officials reportedly said.
The 3 men who died on Friday [11 Jun 2010] were all in their 50s, an official said, and added that their illnesses were likely the result of poor hygiene and a lack of sanitation among villagers when consuming food and water.
Meanwhile, officials in Pursat province reportedly said Sunday [13 Jun 2010] that a separate outbreak of AWD in Koh Andeth district led to the hospitalization of 24 people, 18 of whom are in critical condition.
The latest reports continue an ongoing spate of AWD outbreaks in a handful of provinces across the country, including one that claimed 2 more lives in Ratanakkiri last week [week of 7 Jun 2010].
An official, the head of Ratanakkiri's Communicable Diseases Control Department, told media sources Sunday [13 Jun 2010] that the latest deaths brought the toll for the year [2010] to 22 in [Ratanakkiri] province, and that there had been 700 reported cases.
Thailand-Cholera
13 Jun 2010
The Irrawaddy [edited][ProMEd]
A total of 89 refugees in Mae La Refugee Camp have been infected with cholera in 2 weeks, and the number of cases is increasing, a source told media on Friday [11 Jun 2010]. No deaths have been reported.
A total of 72 patients had been discharged from the hospital as of Thursday [10 Jun 2010], and 15 patients remain in the Cholera Treatment Center (CTC), the official reportedly said.
Most of the patients were infected with the virus by drinking water collected from local wells and streams.
The official said an education campaign has started covering infected patients and neighbors, explaining how cholera is contracted, proper medicine, and the role of water and hygienic food.
Restaurants and food vendors in the camp have been banned until authorities can ensure that sites are hygienic and proper procedures are put in place.
Australia- Crunch time as woman finds bolt in muesli bar
10 Jun 2010
The Age [edited][FSNet]
A Canberra woman found a three-centimeter bolt in a muesli bar.
The woman said she had noticed something out of the corner of her eye as she unwrapped the muesli bar on Tuesday.
She emailed the bar's manufacturer and included photos, but was not satisfied with the response.
10 Jun 2010
The Age [edited][FSNet]
A Canberra woman found a three-centimeter bolt in a muesli bar.
The woman said she had noticed something out of the corner of her eye as she unwrapped the muesli bar on Tuesday.
She emailed the bar's manufacturer and included photos, but was not satisfied with the response.
Vietnam- Outbreaks of food poisoning
10 Jun 2010 Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
More than 100 southern tourists were rushed to hospitals in the south central Binh Thuan Province Thursday [10 Jun 2010] after attending a food fair and having a dinner at a resort in the area. Doctors said 3 general hospitals in the province and a medical clinic in Phan Thiet received 114 people, from 10 to 70 years of age, from midnight on Wednesday [9 Jun 2010]. They displayed symptoms including stomachache, vomiting, fever and diarrhea.
A doctor told media sources that the patients were from a group of around more than 700 employees of a company in Binh Duong Province. The group was on vacation in Ho Chi Minh City and on Wednesday [9 Jun 2010] night had dinner at Suot Cat Tourism and Entertainment Center in Phan Thiet. The resort at the time was organizing a fair with 42 varieties of food. The department has sent officials to hospitals and the resort to take samples for testing.
Earlier on Wednesday [9 Jun 2010], 97 workers from a Japanese glove factory in Ho Chi Minh City were rushed to hospital Wednesday [9 Jun 2010] after having lunch at the factory. The workers suffered from stomach aches, headaches and vomiting around 4 hours after eating a lunch of fried tuna, braised chicken and boiled vegetables supplied by a local chef. City health officials arrived at the company in Tan Thuan Export and Processing Zone in District 7 later the same day [9 Jun 2010] to check the hygiene on site and take food samples for testing.
On Monday [7 Jun 2010], 7 people in Nghe An Province in the north central mountains became sick after drinking water boiled with wild roots. Two of them died. A [75-year-old woman] died 1st, but the cause of death was not discovered before others drank the remaining water at her funeral. [A 42-year-old woman] died soon after.
A 42-year-old man from Binh Thuan Province in the south central coast died Tuesday [8 Jun 2010] after eating puffer fish.
Related stories
11 Jun 2010- Tourists hospitalized en masse for food poisoning
Saigon
[V. Ngoc, translated by Hoang Yen][edited][FSNet]
A group of over 100 tourists was hospitalized with food poisoning in Binh Thuan Province on June 10.
The An Phuoc, Tam, and Binh Thuan Province general hospitals were inundated in the central coastal province early that morning as the patients checked in with severe stomach aches, diarrhea and vomiting.
Thailand- Mushroom poisoning
08 Jun 2010
The ASTV Manager Online [in Thai, trans. Mod.SCM, edited][ProMed]
On 8 Jun 2010, police in Ubon Ratchathani province (northeast of Thailand) received a report of the death of a one-year and 9-month-old girl after she ate poisonous mushrooms that her parents had picked up in the forest on 7 Jun 2010.
The fatal case lived in Phon Ngam subdistrict, Buntharik district, Ubon Ratchathani province. Her parents picked up white mushrooms called Khi Kha Dua from the forest. This small white mushroom grows on timber. They planned to make mushroom soup for the family, but when they returned home their daughter was crying so her grandfather gave her the raw mushroom to eat.
An hour after eating the mushroom, the girl developed nausea, vomiting, and weakness. She was sent to the district hospital and then referred to the provincial hospital (Sanpasitprasong hospital) on the same day (7 Jun 2010). She developed kidney failure and died the next morning (8 Jun 2010).
The ASTV Manager Online [in Thai, trans. Mod.SCM, edited][ProMed]
On 8 Jun 2010, police in Ubon Ratchathani province (northeast of Thailand) received a report of the death of a one-year and 9-month-old girl after she ate poisonous mushrooms that her parents had picked up in the forest on 7 Jun 2010.
The fatal case lived in Phon Ngam subdistrict, Buntharik district, Ubon Ratchathani province. Her parents picked up white mushrooms called Khi Kha Dua from the forest. This small white mushroom grows on timber. They planned to make mushroom soup for the family, but when they returned home their daughter was crying so her grandfather gave her the raw mushroom to eat.
An hour after eating the mushroom, the girl developed nausea, vomiting, and weakness. She was sent to the district hospital and then referred to the provincial hospital (Sanpasitprasong hospital) on the same day (7 Jun 2010). She developed kidney failure and died the next morning (8 Jun 2010).
Vietnam-Diarrhea
01 Jun 2010
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
More than 400 people in the central highlands province of Gia Lai fell sick with food poisoning on Monday [31 May 2010] after attending a traditional gathering of ethnic minorities, a local health official reportedly said.
According to Krong Pa District's authorities, the exact cause of the poisoning is unknown but initial tests showed that the quality of the water from sources at Ma Jai Village, where the gathering was held that day, was not guaranteed.
Another possible explanation is that the food used at the gathering had gone off due to the hot weather conditions, authorities reportedly added.
05 June 2010
Thanh Nien News, Viet Nam News Agency (VNA)/Tuoi Tre report [edited][ProMed]
A total of 6 children have died from acute diarrhea in the northern Vietnamese province of Cao Bang since [19 May 2010], according to the provincial Preventive Medicine Center.
The kids were from Lung Man Village, which was the hardest hit area in Duc Hanh Commune, where 140 people, mainly children, have caught the intestinal affliction this year [2010], the center told media sources.
So far local health agencies have isolated the patients, and sent medical teams to sterilize affected areas.
Thanh Nien News, Viet Nam News Agency (VNA)/Tuoi Tre report [edited][ProMed]
A total of 6 children have died from acute diarrhea in the northern Vietnamese province of Cao Bang since [19 May 2010], according to the provincial Preventive Medicine Center.
The kids were from Lung Man Village, which was the hardest hit area in Duc Hanh Commune, where 140 people, mainly children, have caught the intestinal affliction this year [2010], the center told media sources.
So far local health agencies have isolated the patients, and sent medical teams to sterilize affected areas.
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
More than 400 people in the central highlands province of Gia Lai fell sick with food poisoning on Monday [31 May 2010] after attending a traditional gathering of ethnic minorities, a local health official reportedly said.
According to Krong Pa District's authorities, the exact cause of the poisoning is unknown but initial tests showed that the quality of the water from sources at Ma Jai Village, where the gathering was held that day, was not guaranteed.
Another possible explanation is that the food used at the gathering had gone off due to the hot weather conditions, authorities reportedly added.
Cambodia-Man dies from eating puffer fish
31 May 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
One person died, and 23 were hospitalized after eating poisonous fish in Kampong Cham province's Batheay district late last week (week of 24 May 2010), officials reportedly said.
An official was quoted as saying a 38-year-old man died on Thursday [27 May 2010] after he and 23 other residents from 2 villages in Mepring commune were poisoned by pufferfish caught in a nearby lake.
A 41-year-old resident of Kandal province's Kandal Stung district died earlier this month [May 2010] after eating poisonous fish, but it is unknown what kind of fish it was.
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
A total of 8 cases of fatal watery diarrhea were reported in 4 provinces Sunday [23 May 2010], bringing the number of deaths from sporadic outbreaks of the illness to 39 across the country this year [2010].
Health officials from Kampong Thom, Kratie, Stung Treng, and Ratanakkiri provinces all reported new deaths from watery diarrhea, including the deaths of 3 teenaged siblings in Kampong Thom.
Health officials in Ratanakkiri said they had recalled quick-response workers who were sent out across the province at the beginning of this month [May 2010] to try to contain the outbreaks despite reporting another death from the illness. The province has reported a total of 16 diarrhea deaths so far this year [2010].
Related Stories
30 Mar 2010- Six more ill in Kratie as tests made for cholera
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Laboratory tests have shown that an outbreak of diarrhea that affected 252 people and killed 2 in Kampong Cham last week [week of 10 May 2010] was not caused by cholera, a provincial health official was quoted as saying Sunday [16 May 2010].
31 May 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
One person died, and 23 were hospitalized after eating poisonous fish in Kampong Cham province's Batheay district late last week (week of 24 May 2010), officials reportedly said.
An official was quoted as saying a 38-year-old man died on Thursday [27 May 2010] after he and 23 other residents from 2 villages in Mepring commune were poisoned by pufferfish caught in a nearby lake.
A 41-year-old resident of Kandal province's Kandal Stung district died earlier this month [May 2010] after eating poisonous fish, but it is unknown what kind of fish it was.
Australia- Clostridium difficile
25 May 2010
ABC News [edited]
A total of 3 elderly patients at a Melbourne private hospital have been diagnosed with a potentially fatal and highly infectious stomach [intestinal] bug, sparking fears the strain is spreading in Australia. The strain of Clostridium difficile has killed thousands of people in Europe and North America, but has never been detected in
Australia before.
Related stories
28 May 2010- Australia faces new killer bug
The Australian [edited][ProMed]
25 May 2010
ABC News [edited]
A total of 3 elderly patients at a Melbourne private hospital have been diagnosed with a potentially fatal and highly infectious stomach [intestinal] bug, sparking fears the strain is spreading in Australia. The strain of Clostridium difficile has killed thousands of people in Europe and North America, but has never been detected in
Australia before.
Related stories
28 May 2010- Australia faces new killer bug
The Australian [edited][ProMed]
China (Hong Kong) ex Singapore- Cholera
24 May 2010
XinHuaNet [edited][ProMed]
A 46-year-old HK woman was found to have contracted cholera during her trip to Singapore, the city's Center for Health Protection (CHP) reportedly said on Mon 24 May 2010.
The patient involved developed watery diarrhea starting on 16 May 2010. She sought medical consultation on 18 May 2010 and was given symptomatic treatment, the CHP said. She is now in an isolation unit at a hospital and is in stable condition.
Test on Monday [24 May 2010] showed the woman's stool specimen yielded Vibrio cholerae O1 stereotype Inaba.
The CHP's investigation revealed that the patient had traveled alone to Singapore between 10 and 17 May 2010. This is the 2nd case of cholera reported this year [2010].
XinHuaNet [edited][ProMed]
A 46-year-old HK woman was found to have contracted cholera during her trip to Singapore, the city's Center for Health Protection (CHP) reportedly said on Mon 24 May 2010.
The patient involved developed watery diarrhea starting on 16 May 2010. She sought medical consultation on 18 May 2010 and was given symptomatic treatment, the CHP said. She is now in an isolation unit at a hospital and is in stable condition.
Test on Monday [24 May 2010] showed the woman's stool specimen yielded Vibrio cholerae O1 stereotype Inaba.
The CHP's investigation revealed that the patient had traveled alone to Singapore between 10 and 17 May 2010. This is the 2nd case of cholera reported this year [2010].
Cambodia- Diarrhea kills eight more victims
24 May 2010 The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
A total of 8 cases of fatal watery diarrhea were reported in 4 provinces Sunday [23 May 2010], bringing the number of deaths from sporadic outbreaks of the illness to 39 across the country this year [2010].
Health officials from Kampong Thom, Kratie, Stung Treng, and Ratanakkiri provinces all reported new deaths from watery diarrhea, including the deaths of 3 teenaged siblings in Kampong Thom.
Health officials in Ratanakkiri said they had recalled quick-response workers who were sent out across the province at the beginning of this month [May 2010] to try to contain the outbreaks despite reporting another death from the illness. The province has reported a total of 16 diarrhea deaths so far this year [2010].
Related Stories
30 Mar 2010- Six more ill in Kratie as tests made for cholera
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
01 Apr 2010- Cholera caused Kratie deaths
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed] 13 Apr 2010-Diarrheal illness, fatality
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][FSNet]
A total of 4 ethnic Brov villagers from Ratanakkiri province's Veun Sai district died on Saturday [10 Apr 2010] from acute diarrhoea after drinking unclean water during a forest excursion. Another 10 villagers were being treated at a community health center.
The district governor reportedly said Monday [12 Apr 2010] that the 4 deceased Brov villagers, who were all from the same family, had gone into the forest to look for fruit to sell and drank dirty water.
The official reportedly said that the mother, 39, daughter, 17, son, 12, and brother-in-law, 35, did not reach the health center in time for treatment because they lived in a remote village.
The district governor said that on Sunday [11 Apr 2010] he had asked authorities in Veun Sai to educate villagers about proper hygiene and advise them to seek immediate treatment in the event of future cases.
19 Apr 2010- Diarrheal illness
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
A total of 2 ethnic Kreung men from Ratanakkiri province's O'Chum district died last week [week of 12 Apr 2010] from acute watery diarrhea, and another 55 were hospitalized after drinking from tainted water sources near Tresh village, a provincial health official said.
The reports come just over a week after 4 ethnic Brov villagers from Ratanakkiri's Veun Sai district died and 10 required treatment at a health centre after coming down with acute watery diarrhea, another incident that was blamed on unclean drinking water.
Officials were quoted as saying there had been 8 deaths due to acute watery diarrhea in the province [Ratanakkiri] so far this year [2010].
To prevent the illness, officials said villagers should boil water or use chlorine tablets, wash their hands regularly, defecate away from water supplies, bury feces, and cover up food so flies cannot land in it.
26 Apr 2010- Diarrhea kills two in Ratanakkiri province
Phnom Penh Post [edited]
An 18-year-old woman in Ratanakkiri province died from acute diarrhoea contracted after consuming contaminated water. This marks the seventh such death in the province in the last two weeks.
A representative from the provincial Communicable Diseases Control Department reportedly said that in addition to seven deaths, about 100 people suffering from diarrhoea have been rushed to hospitals or health centres since April 10.
28 Apr 2010- More diarrhea deaths
Phnom Penh Post [edited]
Two residents of Peam Khes village in Stung Treng province died from severe vomiting and diarrhoea late last week, and a further 20 were admitted to the district health centre with similar symptoms.
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][FSNet]
A total of 4 ethnic Brov villagers from Ratanakkiri province's Veun Sai district died on Saturday [10 Apr 2010] from acute diarrhoea after drinking unclean water during a forest excursion. Another 10 villagers were being treated at a community health center.
The district governor reportedly said Monday [12 Apr 2010] that the 4 deceased Brov villagers, who were all from the same family, had gone into the forest to look for fruit to sell and drank dirty water.
The official reportedly said that the mother, 39, daughter, 17, son, 12, and brother-in-law, 35, did not reach the health center in time for treatment because they lived in a remote village.
The district governor said that on Sunday [11 Apr 2010] he had asked authorities in Veun Sai to educate villagers about proper hygiene and advise them to seek immediate treatment in the event of future cases.
19 Apr 2010- Diarrheal illness
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
A total of 2 ethnic Kreung men from Ratanakkiri province's O'Chum district died last week [week of 12 Apr 2010] from acute watery diarrhea, and another 55 were hospitalized after drinking from tainted water sources near Tresh village, a provincial health official said.
The reports come just over a week after 4 ethnic Brov villagers from Ratanakkiri's Veun Sai district died and 10 required treatment at a health centre after coming down with acute watery diarrhea, another incident that was blamed on unclean drinking water.
Officials were quoted as saying there had been 8 deaths due to acute watery diarrhea in the province [Ratanakkiri] so far this year [2010].
To prevent the illness, officials said villagers should boil water or use chlorine tablets, wash their hands regularly, defecate away from water supplies, bury feces, and cover up food so flies cannot land in it.
26 Apr 2010- Diarrhea kills two in Ratanakkiri province
Phnom Penh Post [edited]
An 18-year-old woman in Ratanakkiri province died from acute diarrhoea contracted after consuming contaminated water. This marks the seventh such death in the province in the last two weeks.
A representative from the provincial Communicable Diseases Control Department reportedly said that in addition to seven deaths, about 100 people suffering from diarrhoea have been rushed to hospitals or health centres since April 10.
28 Apr 2010- More diarrhea deaths
Phnom Penh Post [edited]
Two residents of Peam Khes village in Stung Treng province died from severe vomiting and diarrhoea late last week, and a further 20 were admitted to the district health centre with similar symptoms.
07 May 2010- Impure water sickens 21 in Kratie district
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
10 May 2010- Rantanakkiri villagers return after fleeing outbreak
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Villagers from Ratanakkiri province's O'Chum district have returned to their homes after fleeing into the jungle after a diarrhea outbreak killed 2 villagers last week [week of 3 May 2010], officials said.
12 May 2010- Villagers aim to scare off diarrhea
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Villagers in Kampot province's Banteay Meas district are starting to place scarecrows in front of their homes in the hope of warding off sickness, following the death of one woman from severe diarrhea, officials said.
An official was quoted as saying that between 20 and 30 percent of families in Banteay Meas district have placed scarecrows in front of their homes, but that health officials had emphasized the importance of following good hygiene practices.
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Villagers from Ratanakkiri province's O'Chum district have returned to their homes after fleeing into the jungle after a diarrhea outbreak killed 2 villagers last week [week of 3 May 2010], officials said.
12 May 2010- Villagers aim to scare off diarrhea
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Villagers in Kampot province's Banteay Meas district are starting to place scarecrows in front of their homes in the hope of warding off sickness, following the death of one woman from severe diarrhea, officials said.
An official was quoted as saying that between 20 and 30 percent of families in Banteay Meas district have placed scarecrows in front of their homes, but that health officials had emphasized the importance of following good hygiene practices.
13 May 2010- Diarrhea hits Kampong Chan
The Phnom Penh Post [edited] 14 May 2010- Outbreak of diarrhea spreading in Kampong Cham
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
The Phnom Penh Post [edited] The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Laboratory tests have shown that an outbreak of diarrhea that affected 252 people and killed 2 in Kampong Cham last week [week of 10 May 2010] was not caused by cholera, a provincial health official was quoted as saying Sunday [16 May 2010].
Malaysia- Mysterious outbreak turns out to be food poisoning
24 May 2010
AsiaOne Health
The Star/Asia News Network [edited][FSNet]
The mysterious illness that caused 179 pupils in Langkap, Teluk Intan, to fall sick was discovered to be food poisoning.
The State Health Committee chairman was quoted as saying tests on food samples taken from the school canteen revealed that it was infected with the streptococcus bacteria.
Taiwan- Taipei County reports suspected foodborne botulism
23 May 2010
Focus Taiwan [edited][FSNet]
Botulism is suspected to be responsible for the recent illness of two Taipei County women after the bacteria claimed one life in the county in April.
The women -- a 53-year-old mother and her daughter-in-law aged 38 -- were hospitalized May 18 and May 20, respectively, after developing symptoms of food poisoning, officials of the county's Public Health Bureau said Saturday.
Suspecting botulism, a notifiable disease, the hospital reported the case to the Department of Health (DOH), which then informed the county bureau.
A technical specialist at the bureau reportedly said the women had eaten soybean products packed in airtight bags, including dried beancurd and vegetarian meat produced by a Taoyuan County-based factory, the same factory whose products were blamed for the April case.
Related stories
23 May 2010- DOH warns of substandard packaging, storage of dried tofu
Focus Taiwan [edited][FSNet]
Chen Ching-fang and Deborah Kuo
24 May 2010
AsiaOne Health
The Star/Asia News Network [edited][FSNet]
The mysterious illness that caused 179 pupils in Langkap, Teluk Intan, to fall sick was discovered to be food poisoning.
The State Health Committee chairman was quoted as saying tests on food samples taken from the school canteen revealed that it was infected with the streptococcus bacteria.
Taiwan- Taipei County reports suspected foodborne botulism
23 May 2010
Focus Taiwan [edited][FSNet]
Botulism is suspected to be responsible for the recent illness of two Taipei County women after the bacteria claimed one life in the county in April.
The women -- a 53-year-old mother and her daughter-in-law aged 38 -- were hospitalized May 18 and May 20, respectively, after developing symptoms of food poisoning, officials of the county's Public Health Bureau said Saturday.
Suspecting botulism, a notifiable disease, the hospital reported the case to the Department of Health (DOH), which then informed the county bureau.
A technical specialist at the bureau reportedly said the women had eaten soybean products packed in airtight bags, including dried beancurd and vegetarian meat produced by a Taoyuan County-based factory, the same factory whose products were blamed for the April case.
Related stories
23 May 2010- DOH warns of substandard packaging, storage of dried tofu
Focus Taiwan [edited][FSNet]
Chen Ching-fang and Deborah Kuo
20 May 2010
Centre for Health Protection [edited][FSNet]
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 20) reminded people to observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent intestinal infection caused by E. coli O157:H7 bacteria. The appeal came after the confirmation by laboratory test of a case involving a two-year-old girl living in Tuen Mun. This is the second case of E. coli O157:H7 infection reported to the CHP this year. The girl was admitted to a hospital on May 19 and is now in stable condition. Her stool specimen grew toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7. The child had no travel history during the incubation period.
15 May 2010
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
A total of 106 cases of acute diarrhea were detected in 5 northern cities and provinces; however, which kinds of food causing disease are unidentified so far, said the [National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology]. The 5 cities and provinces include Hanoi and Hai Phong cities, Ha Nam, Hai Duong and Bac Ninh provinces.
China (Hong Kong) ex India- Cholera
08 May 2010
News.gov.hk [edited][ProMed]
The Centre for Health Protection is investigating a cholera case involving a 53-year-old man who joined a tour group to India from 24 Apr 2010 to 1 May 2010.
He developed stomach pain and diarrhea on 30 Apr 2010 and sought medical advice on 4 May 2010. He is now in isolation in a hospital for treatment and is stable.
Laboratory tests showed he had cholera. This is the 1st cholera case reported in 2010. There were 7 cholera cases in 2008, 3 cholera cases in 2007, one in 2006 and 5 in 2005.
Centre for Health Protection [edited][FSNet]
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 20) reminded people to observe good personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent intestinal infection caused by E. coli O157:H7 bacteria. The appeal came after the confirmation by laboratory test of a case involving a two-year-old girl living in Tuen Mun. This is the second case of E. coli O157:H7 infection reported to the CHP this year. The girl was admitted to a hospital on May 19 and is now in stable condition. Her stool specimen grew toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7. The child had no travel history during the incubation period.
Papua New Guinea- Cholera
20 May 2010
Radio New Zealand International [edited][ProMed]
Papua New Guinea's Minister of Health has declared a public health emergency in Central Province following criticism of the government's response to the latest cholera outbreak. The announcement follows a public health emergency declaration in Port Moresby in the latest flare-up of an outbreak first detected in remote provinces in August 2009.
The official was quoted as saying 3 people in the capital have died from the disease, which has infected 132 people there, and there have been 2 deaths in Central Province, where there are another 117 cases of infection.
The Papua New Guinea Secretary for Education reportedly said that awareness is being carried out on preventative hygiene measures to stop the spread of cholera in Port Moresby's schools. The official said awareness is being carried out by education, health and local government officials.
20 May 2010
Radio New Zealand International [edited][ProMed]
Papua New Guinea's Minister of Health has declared a public health emergency in Central Province following criticism of the government's response to the latest cholera outbreak. The announcement follows a public health emergency declaration in Port Moresby in the latest flare-up of an outbreak first detected in remote provinces in August 2009.
The official was quoted as saying 3 people in the capital have died from the disease, which has infected 132 people there, and there have been 2 deaths in Central Province, where there are another 117 cases of infection.
The Papua New Guinea Secretary for Education reportedly said that awareness is being carried out on preventative hygiene measures to stop the spread of cholera in Port Moresby's schools. The official said awareness is being carried out by education, health and local government officials.
China-Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning, Scallops, Alert
19 May 2010
The Standard [edited][ProMed]
Health chiefs are still on the hunt for the source of poisoned scallops which sickened 9 more people yesterday, 18 May 2010. The contaminated shellfish have also turned up in more markets after the scare spread to Macau, where 14 people, aged 13 to 68, have reported falling sick since 17 May 2010.
Hong Kong's Department of Health said the reports of another 9 people coming down with paralytic shellfish poisoning took the total number affected to 26. All are believed to have been sickened after eating fresh scallops bought from local markets since last Saturday, 15 May 2010.
The department has told people not to eat fresh scallops for the time being. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, meanwhile, ordered stall owners and suppliers to discard scallops, although its experts have still to track down the source of the trouble.
Contaminated scallops have so far been found in markets in Sham Shui Po, Tseung Kwan O, Lam Tin, Tin Shui Wai, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon City, and Tuen Mun. A spokeswoman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department [FEHD] reportedly said its officers carried out investigations at the market stalls and collected samples for tests.
The department's Centre for Food Safety also contacted suppliers, who have stopped distributing.
Officials at the Centre for Health Protection said that 9 patients from 18 May 2010 were 4 men and 5 women aged between 22 and 72 who came from 4 family groups. Their main symptoms include weakness of the limbs, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and slurred speech, which struck within an hour of them eating scallops at home.
19 May 2010
The Standard [edited][ProMed]
Health chiefs are still on the hunt for the source of poisoned scallops which sickened 9 more people yesterday, 18 May 2010. The contaminated shellfish have also turned up in more markets after the scare spread to Macau, where 14 people, aged 13 to 68, have reported falling sick since 17 May 2010.
Hong Kong's Department of Health said the reports of another 9 people coming down with paralytic shellfish poisoning took the total number affected to 26. All are believed to have been sickened after eating fresh scallops bought from local markets since last Saturday, 15 May 2010.
The department has told people not to eat fresh scallops for the time being. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, meanwhile, ordered stall owners and suppliers to discard scallops, although its experts have still to track down the source of the trouble.
Contaminated scallops have so far been found in markets in Sham Shui Po, Tseung Kwan O, Lam Tin, Tin Shui Wai, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon City, and Tuen Mun. A spokeswoman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department [FEHD] reportedly said its officers carried out investigations at the market stalls and collected samples for tests.
The department's Centre for Food Safety also contacted suppliers, who have stopped distributing.
Officials at the Centre for Health Protection said that 9 patients from 18 May 2010 were 4 men and 5 women aged between 22 and 72 who came from 4 family groups. Their main symptoms include weakness of the limbs, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and slurred speech, which struck within an hour of them eating scallops at home.
Related stories:
17 May 2010-Paralytic shellfish poisoning
Hong Kong Information Services, Health & Community News [edited][ProMed]
The Centre for Health Protection urges people not to eat fresh scallops until further notice, as 17 people have come down with paralytic shellfish poisoning since 15 May 2010.
17 May 2010-Paralytic shellfish poisoning
Hong Kong Information Services, Health & Community News [edited][ProMed]
The Centre for Health Protection urges people not to eat fresh scallops until further notice, as 17 people have come down with paralytic shellfish poisoning since 15 May 2010.
23 May 2010-Shellfish poisoning
Xinkuai via Jinyang Network [in Chinese, trans. Rappt.DS, edited][ProMed]
Xinkuai via Jinyang Network [in Chinese, trans. Rappt.DS, edited][ProMed]
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
A total of 106 cases of acute diarrhea were detected in 5 northern cities and provinces; however, which kinds of food causing disease are unidentified so far, said the [National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology]. The 5 cities and provinces include Hanoi and Hai Phong cities, Ha Nam, Hai Duong and Bac Ninh provinces.
China (Hong Kong) ex India- Cholera
08 May 2010
News.gov.hk [edited][ProMed]
The Centre for Health Protection is investigating a cholera case involving a 53-year-old man who joined a tour group to India from 24 Apr 2010 to 1 May 2010.
He developed stomach pain and diarrhea on 30 Apr 2010 and sought medical advice on 4 May 2010. He is now in isolation in a hospital for treatment and is stable.
Laboratory tests showed he had cholera. This is the 1st cholera case reported in 2010. There were 7 cholera cases in 2008, 3 cholera cases in 2007, one in 2006 and 5 in 2005.
06 May 2010
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
A food safety official in Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday [5 May 2010] reportedly said 67 children from a local kindergarten suffered food poisoning after having lunch the day before [4 May 2010].
Within 5 hours of having lunch at around 11 a.m., the students of the kindergarten in District 2 complained of stomachache, tiredness and nausea, the health official reportedly said. Two of them were admitted to hospital due to critical condition, while others received treatment at school.
The students had rice, soup, fish and bananas cooked at the kindergarten together with 207 others. Raw materials for the lunch were provided by [a] Company in District 11. The school's kitchen usually complies with all the regulations, according to the city health inspectorate.
Vietnam- Cholera, Hai Duong
Thailand- Food poisoning from pork, botulism suspected
18 Apr 2010
The ASTV Manager Online [in Thai, trans. Mod.SCM, edited][ProMed]
A total of 7 people in Lampang who ate Larb, Lu Mu (Lao meat salad made with raw meat made from a forest pig) are still in hospital, one of them in severe condition. The initial diagnosis is poisoning by botulinum toxin.
On 18 Apr 2010, there are 3 cases admitted in Lampang Hospital; a 67-year-old male, a 63-year-old male, and a 49-year-old monk. All of them had a history of eating Larb, Lu Mu. Symptoms were slurred speech, chest discomfort and body numbness. Two of the cases partially recovered with supportive treatment while the 67-year-old male requires respiratory support because of lungs infection.
Another 3 cases were admitted in Wangnua District Hospital: a 29-year-old female, a 43-year-old monk and a 49-year-old monk.
The 7th case is a male, admitted in Phayao Ram Hospital, who is in severe condition.
The patients are all Huai Num villagers, Moo 14, Rong Koa sub-district, Wangnua district, Lampang province. They ate Larb, Lu Moo from forest pig hunted in Doi Khun Song, on the border between Wangnua district and Doi Saket, Chiang Mai. During the Songkran festival [traditional Thai New Year's Day, celebrated from 13 to 15 Apr 2010], the raw pork was distributed to more than 100 people in the village. On 13 Apr 2010, cases with dry mouth, parched throat, slurred speech and chest discomfort gradually occurred. Initially, they were sent to a clinic but were then referred to Wangnua Hospital, Phayao Ram Hospital and Lampang Hospital. There were 2 fatalities; a male aged 47 years and a woman aged 53 years.
Taiwan- Botulism confirmed as cause of woman's death
18 Apr 2010
Focus Taiwan News Channel, Channel News Asia (CNA) report [edited][ProMed]
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) under the Department of Health confirmed Sunday [18 Apr 2010] that a woman who died [14 Apr 2010] after eating dried bean curd and preserved oysters had a botulism infection.
CDC Deputy Director was quoted as saying lab tests confirmed that the
44-year-old woman from Miaoli County had a botulism infection, which is caused by a nerve toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.
It was also still not known whether it was the dried bean curd or the preserved oysters which the woman and her mother-in-law ate that caused the fatal botulism infection, Lin said.
The 2 Miaoli women were the 3rd and 4th botulism cases this year [2010], following a mother and daughter in Taoyuan County who were diagnosed in early [April 2010], the CDC said. The Taoyuan mother and daughter were treated with botulinum antitoxin.
Related stories:
18 Apr 2010- Four cases confirmed in 2010
Centers for Disease Control, ROC (Taiwan) [in Chinese, trans. Rappt.AH, edited][ProMed]
Vietnam- Drug residue found in meat
16 Apr 2010
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
Tests have revealed that chicken meat and pork sampled in Hanoi contained several illegal drugs, the Viet Nam Food Administration reported on Wednesday [14 Apr 2010].
Of the 72 pork samples, one had salbutamol, a drug to treat asthma, and 8 had clenbuterol, which is used by people with breathing disorders, the administration was quoted as saying at a conference on food safety held in Hanoi. 4 of 72 chicken meat samples had salbutamol and 10 had clenbuterol.
While farmers use the drugs to stimulate the growth of poultry and cattle, Viet Nam has banned them from farm use since 2002 because they have been found to cause heart disorders, headaches, and nausea in people who eat the meat.
Also at the conference, the administration said they found that vegetables and fruits sold in Hanoi contained chemical substances at levels of up to 13-15 percent higher than regulated.
Taiwan- DOH encourages cooking of packaged foods
14 Apr 2010
The China Post [edited][ProMed]
Department of Health (DOH) officials urged consumers to cook their food and dishes well after 3 residents in Taoyuan County fell ill after eating packaged foodstuffs contaminated by botulinum toxin.
In the 1st reported botulinum toxin case in Taiwan this year [2010], a 61-year-old woman and her daughter, 41, are still under intensive medical care while the woman's son-in-law also showed moderate symptoms, said DOH officials yesterday [13 Apr 2010].
The DOH has started tracing the sources of the packaged vegetarian foods,mainly imitation dried meat, pig legs, and preserved bean curd for vegetarians the 3 purchased on their trip to southern Chiayi andTainan districts during the Tomb Sweeping Festival holidays in late March (2010).
The mother and daughter were hospitalized on [1 Apr 2010] after showing symptoms like vomiting, muscle spasms, and blurred eyesight.
The son-in-law said they purchased the vegetarian food with vacuum packing at different markets on the trip.
DOH officials said vacuum packing is a modern method of storing food in an airless environment. But the food items can still be contaminated during packing, delivery or storage. They said consumers should choose products from credible food companies. But the most important step is to cook or boil the ready-to-eat foods well to eliminate bacteria that cannot survive high heat. The same practice should be also applied to other packaged foodstuffs and frozen foods, including the popular frozen dumplings with meat stuffing, the officials said.
A total of 9 people in Taiwan were poisoned by botulinum toxin and 2 died in 1986 after eating brine cured peanuts from a local supplier.
There were 12 confirmed cases in Taiwan area during the past 2 years, the officials said.
Related Stories
16 Apr 2010Two cases (one fatal) of botulism, dried bean curd or preserved oysters suspected
The China Post [edited][ProMed]
Vietnam- Another cholera case found in Ho Chi Minh City
10 Apr 2010
Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
A 3rd case of cholera was confirmed on [9 Apr 2010] in Ho Chi Minh City at the Tropical Disease Hospital, prompting the city Health Department to call for measures to prevent a possible epidemic.
The latest patient is a male university student from Ho Chi Minh City's Ward 7, District 5. He was hospitalized on [6 Apr 2010] suffering from acute diarrhea, vomiting, and severe dehydration. The student said that a day earlier he had eaten a meal of rice, sour soup and braised pork at a street eatery near the city's Bong Bridge, Binh Thanh District. Soon after eating, he experienced a stomachache, which then led to severe diarrhea and vomiting over the next several hours. According to the Tropical Diseases hospital, several patients suffering severe diarrhea have been seen over the past several days, including some acute cases. Most patients said they had eaten food sold at street stalls before falling ill.
Related stories:
20 Apr 2010- Ho Chi Minh City announced 2 more cholera patients
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited] [ProMed]
Two more people tested positive for the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, a hospital reportedly said.
The 2 patients are a 25-year-old man, who experienced the symptoms of cholera on [14 Apr 2010] and his 18-month-old son, who [was discharged and] came back his hometown in the Mekong delta province of Tra Vinh on [19 Apr 2010] with his grandmother.
Health workers disinfected the area and raise awareness about the disease and provide residents there with a 5000 liter safe water tank because people living in boats lack hygienic water for drinking.
The city has so far reported 7 cholera cases.13 Apr 2010 The fifth person tests positive for Vibrio cholerae
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited] [ProMed]
A total of 5 people have been infected with Vibrio cholerae in Ho
Chi Minh City so far, according to an official from the municipal health department.
The 5th case was a female pupil from Hong Bang junior high school in
District 5, who tested positive for the bacterium on [12 Apr 2010]. She is the sister of a male student who contracted the disease on [9 Apr 2010]. The results of an epidemiological survey have shown that all these cases of infection are related to food vendors operating near schools, which usually do not meet hygiene requirements.
Ho Chi Minh City has launched a hygiene campaign to raise public awareness of this and to closely monitor people suspected of having the disease. Vuong Phan Kim, an official from the District 5 People's Committee, said her district has taken preventive measures such as advising pupils not to eat unhygienic food, spraying disinfectant, improving the quality of canteens and taking samples from food and drinks sold by vendors.
13 Apr 2010- Acute diarrhea spreads to Bac Ninh and Ho Chi Min city
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
08 Apr 2010-First cholera patient reported in Ho Chi Minh city
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
Philippines- Food poisoning downs 70 in North Cotabato
08 Apr 2010
Inquirer.net [edited][ProMed]
A total of 70 lumad [indigenous residents] have been brought to the hospital due to food poisoning after eating wild yam, a social welfare officer was reported as saying. The victims were from Arakan, President Roxas and Tulunan towns. None of the victims died, official sources reported.
Cambodia- Food poisoning
01 Apr 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Monks received treatment at a hospital on Wednesday [31 Mar 2010] for food poisoning. At least 48 monks in Kandal province's Kien Svay district, have been treated for food poisoning in Phnom Penh hospitals since Monday [29 Mar 2010], health officials were quoted as saying. The cause of the food poisoning is believed to be uncooked vegetables, health officials were quoted as saying.
Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
Three days after the Food Hygiene and Safety Department ordered the seizure and destruction of "Fluorescent lollipops" that contain a cancer-causing substance in their sticks, vendors are still selling the candy in Ho Chi Minh City [HCMC] and Hanoi.
Cartons of the lollipops, containing 20-30 each, are still being sold at market in District 6 as well as in front of some schools and hospitals including.
The lollipops can also be purchased from independent street peddlers for just VND 2000 [USD 0.1] each.
On [29 Mar 2010] in Hanoi, a joint inspection team found 4 boxes of the lollipops for sale at a stall on Hang Giay Street.
On [26 Mar 2010], the Health Ministry's Food Hygiene and Safety Department ordered its units nationwide to quickly seize and destroy the candy, which lists no manufacturer or place of origin.
The lollipops' sticks glow due to the presence of polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), a toxic substance that can cause cancer.
Related stories
27 Mar 2010- Contaminated lollipops
Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited]
29 Mar 2010
VietNamNet Bridge, Viet Nam News (VNS) [edited][ProMed]
A high proportion of imported fruit recently tested by health inspectors was found to be contaminated with potentially harmful levels of chemicals, the Viet Nam Food Hygiene and Safety Department reportedly said on Wednesday [24 Mar 2010].
Of 10 tangerine samples imported from China, 2 tested positive for excessive quantities of deltamethrin, a synthetic insecticide. Meanwhile, of 40 samples of pear, grape, red apple, and tangerine of Chinese origin tested for harmful substances, 4 had excessive amounts of preservatives derived from chloride, while 8 samples were shown to have excessive amounts of organic pesticide.
The report was released at a conference on food hygiene and safety organised by the Ministry of Health in Ha Noi. An official reportedly said most of the insecticides and preservatives found in the fruits contained a significant proportion of pyrethroid, a synthetic pesticide that is harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms but is generally harmless to humans, but could become dangerous after long term exposure.
The conference also heard that of 1500 samples of meat and meat products from across the country tested recently, 41 per cent had Salmonella, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning gastroenteritis and typhoid.
An official also reported that in 2009, 20 per cent to 40 per cent of health violations related to poor or missing labelling on packaging. 20 per cent of samples taken were also shown to be sub-standard. Furthermore, just 20 to 30 per cent of the food enterprises inspected were certified to operate.
Vietnam- Food poisoning killed 35 last year
26 Mar 2010
Thanh Nien Daily [edited][FSNet]
Thirty-five people were killed by Vietnam’s 152 major food poisoning cases last year, authorities said at a health conference in Hanoi Wednesday.
More than half of the 5,200 people poisoned got sick while at home or visiting friends’ houses, while only 4 percent were caused by street food, the ministry’s Vietnam Food Administrator reported.
Others cases were brought on by food at parties and factory canteens.
Representatives at the conference also said that recent tests had revealed that many shipments of Chinese-import fruits were contaminated by high levels chemical substances and insecticides.
Ten percent of China restaurant meals use "oil" from drains and gutters
19 Mar 2010
China Daily [edited][FSNet]
Oil from China’s drains and gutters treated to look like edible cooking oil in a lucrative night-time operation is being used in “1-in-10” restaurant meals in China.
The swill oil is apparently loaded with aflatoxin.
It was reported that a recent student investigation in Wuhan found 2-3 million tons of ‘swill oil’ makes its way back to rice boxes and meals out each year. It is usually sold as pig feed.
A professor on oil and toxin was quoted as saying the conspiracy starts at night when swill-fishers hollow out the stinking hogwash from urban sewages, followed by filtrating, heating, subsiding, dividing, and then in the morning comes out the clear-looking "edible" oil for unwitting customers.
Vietnam: Cholera (Hanoi)
18 Mar 2010
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
A 28-year-old woman in Tay Ho district was hospitalized at a hospital on 12 Mar 2010 in serious condition, but has been released.
After 5 days, the woman completely recovered and left the hospital on 17 Mar 2010. This is the 1st cholera case in Hanoi in 2010. The Central Epidemiology Institute has been investigating the possible source of the cholera.
02 Mar 2010
Thanh Nien News, Viet Nam News Agency report (VNA) [edited][ProMed]
A team of inspectors destroyed hundreds of kilograms of bean sprouts this week [February 2010].
Local traders usually used 2 ml bottles of SHS that costs VND 1500-2000 (USD 0.08-0.11) in the market to soak 11-12 kilograms of the beans. The beans would then sprout 2 days faster than normal. The green chemical that smells like pesticide also causes the bean sprouts to store water and thus weigh 1.7 times more.
The use of SHS is banned in Viet Nam and the families had smuggled it in from abroad.
The chemical is also known as "leaf fertilizer" among Vietnamese farmers as they spray it on the leaves of plants and trees, and sometimes their trunks, to kill insects.
The Ministry of Health has banned the use of SHS, but many farmers still inject it into fruits to keep them fresh for longer periods.
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
The Ministry of Health has reported that more than 100 Cambodians have tested positive for cholera since November [2009], reversing its initial refusal to confirm the presence of the disease and simultaneously defending its handling of the outbreak.
Speaking at a joint press conference held with the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday [12 Feb 2010], Minister of Health Mam Bunheng said there had been 128 confirmed cholera cases and one death. About 65 percent of the cases involved children under the age of 15, and the single recorded fatality was an 82-year old man from Takeo province who died after contracting cholera in January [2010], he said.
Prior to 12 Feb 2010, ministry officials had not released any information about cholera cases.
Officials reportedly said the ministry had taken immediate action after the 1st case was confirmed, visiting provinces in which potential cases had been reported to educate residents about the importance of frequent hand washing, covering toilets, and boiling drinking water. The official also reported that the ministry had distributed oral rehydration salts, intravenous fluids, and chlorine for disinfecting water.
Radio New Zealand International [edited][ProMed]
Another 500 people have been infected with cholera in Papua New Guinea over the holiday period, raising the total to about 1900 cases. Close to 40 people have died since the beginning of the outbreak more than 5 months ago.
English.ntdty.com [edited][ProMed]
A new milk safety scandal has broken out in China. Authorities in Shanghai have closed a dairy company and arrested 3 executives, after milk products were found to contain high levels of the toxic industrial chemical melamine.
According to the state-run Shanghai Daily, melamine was found in milk powder and condensed milk made by the Shanghai Panda Dairy Co. Ltd.
Melamine is a toxic chemical used for making plastic. When added to food it can make the protein content appear higher, but it is highly detrimental to human health.
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
A food safety official in Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday [5 May 2010] reportedly said 67 children from a local kindergarten suffered food poisoning after having lunch the day before [4 May 2010].
Within 5 hours of having lunch at around 11 a.m., the students of the kindergarten in District 2 complained of stomachache, tiredness and nausea, the health official reportedly said. Two of them were admitted to hospital due to critical condition, while others received treatment at school.
The students had rice, soup, fish and bananas cooked at the kindergarten together with 207 others. Raw materials for the lunch were provided by [a] Company in District 11. The school's kitchen usually complies with all the regulations, according to the city health inspectorate.
Vietnam- Diarrhea strikes wedding guests
05 May 2010
Vietnam News [edited][FSNet]
Unfortunately for guests at a wedding feast in Bac Ly commune in Ly Nhan District, 47 of them developed acute diarrhea. Health workers are trying to monitor an additional 63 guests, while determining if the source was food.
05 May 2010
Vietnam News [edited][FSNet]
Unfortunately for guests at a wedding feast in Bac Ly commune in Ly Nhan District, 47 of them developed acute diarrhea. Health workers are trying to monitor an additional 63 guests, while determining if the source was food.
China- Harmful bacteria found in milk from NW China food poisoning
21 Apr 2010
Xinhua News Agency [edited][FSNet]
The milk that caused food poisoning in almost 100 middle and primary school children in northwest China contained excessive amounts of E. coli and other bacteria, health authorities announced Wednesday.
Samples of the milk that had been drunk in schools in Xunyang County, Shaanxi Province, were tested and found to have a bacterium density of 16,400 per gram of milk, far exceeding the limit of 10 in per gram, said Zhang Jiman, director of a laboratory of the county disease control center.
Tests of 100 ml of milk also found 230 E. coli bacteria per gram, while the safe limit was three, officials reportedly said.
21 Apr 2010
Xinhua News Agency [edited][FSNet]
The milk that caused food poisoning in almost 100 middle and primary school children in northwest China contained excessive amounts of E. coli and other bacteria, health authorities announced Wednesday.
Samples of the milk that had been drunk in schools in Xunyang County, Shaanxi Province, were tested and found to have a bacterium density of 16,400 per gram of milk, far exceeding the limit of 10 in per gram, said Zhang Jiman, director of a laboratory of the county disease control center.
Tests of 100 ml of milk also found 230 E. coli bacteria per gram, while the safe limit was three, officials reportedly said.
Vietnam- Cholera, Hai Duong
19 Apr 2010
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
Five in 16 cases of acute diarrhea reported in the northern province of Hai Duong were tested positive for the virulent Vibrio cholerae, a health official was quoted as saying on [18 Apr 2010].
The director of the province's [Center for Preventive Medicine] reportedly said that all of the 16 patients live in the same village of Binh Giang district. They are being treated in the local hospital and [health center]. Epidemiologists said they all ate food at the [same] funeral ceremony in a neighboring village.
Medical workers of the district clinic have sprayed chemicals to disinfect the environment and water as well as kept an eye on another 250 participants of the ceremony and investigated the origin of the food used at the funeral.
Five cities and provinces have reported outbreaks of acute diarrhea and cholera, said the [Administration for Preventive Medicine and Environment] of the Ministry of Health.
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
Five in 16 cases of acute diarrhea reported in the northern province of Hai Duong were tested positive for the virulent Vibrio cholerae, a health official was quoted as saying on [18 Apr 2010].
The director of the province's [Center for Preventive Medicine] reportedly said that all of the 16 patients live in the same village of Binh Giang district. They are being treated in the local hospital and [health center]. Epidemiologists said they all ate food at the [same] funeral ceremony in a neighboring village.
Medical workers of the district clinic have sprayed chemicals to disinfect the environment and water as well as kept an eye on another 250 participants of the ceremony and investigated the origin of the food used at the funeral.
Five cities and provinces have reported outbreaks of acute diarrhea and cholera, said the [Administration for Preventive Medicine and Environment] of the Ministry of Health.
Related stories
14 May 2010- The second case of acute diarrhea confirmed in Hai Duong
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
A 53-year-old man in Hai Duong province has [been] tested positive for the bacteria Vibrio cholera, officials confirmed. This is the 2nd case in the province so far this year [2010], the first occurred in Vinh Hong commune, Binh Giang district, in April [2010].
The Hai Duong provincial Preventive [Medicine] Centre is coordinating with functional agencies and local authorities to sterilise infected areas and offer treatment for patients in case the disease spreads more widely.
14 May 2010- The second case of acute diarrhea confirmed in Hai Duong
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
A 53-year-old man in Hai Duong province has [been] tested positive for the bacteria Vibrio cholera, officials confirmed. This is the 2nd case in the province so far this year [2010], the first occurred in Vinh Hong commune, Binh Giang district, in April [2010].
The Hai Duong provincial Preventive [Medicine] Centre is coordinating with functional agencies and local authorities to sterilise infected areas and offer treatment for patients in case the disease spreads more widely.
Thailand- Food poisoning from pork, botulism suspected
18 Apr 2010
The ASTV Manager Online [in Thai, trans. Mod.SCM, edited][ProMed]
A total of 7 people in Lampang who ate Larb, Lu Mu (Lao meat salad made with raw meat made from a forest pig) are still in hospital, one of them in severe condition. The initial diagnosis is poisoning by botulinum toxin.
On 18 Apr 2010, there are 3 cases admitted in Lampang Hospital; a 67-year-old male, a 63-year-old male, and a 49-year-old monk. All of them had a history of eating Larb, Lu Mu. Symptoms were slurred speech, chest discomfort and body numbness. Two of the cases partially recovered with supportive treatment while the 67-year-old male requires respiratory support because of lungs infection.
Another 3 cases were admitted in Wangnua District Hospital: a 29-year-old female, a 43-year-old monk and a 49-year-old monk.
The 7th case is a male, admitted in Phayao Ram Hospital, who is in severe condition.
The patients are all Huai Num villagers, Moo 14, Rong Koa sub-district, Wangnua district, Lampang province. They ate Larb, Lu Moo from forest pig hunted in Doi Khun Song, on the border between Wangnua district and Doi Saket, Chiang Mai. During the Songkran festival [traditional Thai New Year's Day, celebrated from 13 to 15 Apr 2010], the raw pork was distributed to more than 100 people in the village. On 13 Apr 2010, cases with dry mouth, parched throat, slurred speech and chest discomfort gradually occurred. Initially, they were sent to a clinic but were then referred to Wangnua Hospital, Phayao Ram Hospital and Lampang Hospital. There were 2 fatalities; a male aged 47 years and a woman aged 53 years.
Taiwan- Botulism confirmed as cause of woman's death
18 Apr 2010
Focus Taiwan News Channel, Channel News Asia (CNA) report [edited][ProMed]
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) under the Department of Health confirmed Sunday [18 Apr 2010] that a woman who died [14 Apr 2010] after eating dried bean curd and preserved oysters had a botulism infection.
CDC Deputy Director was quoted as saying lab tests confirmed that the
44-year-old woman from Miaoli County had a botulism infection, which is caused by a nerve toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.
It was also still not known whether it was the dried bean curd or the preserved oysters which the woman and her mother-in-law ate that caused the fatal botulism infection, Lin said.
The 2 Miaoli women were the 3rd and 4th botulism cases this year [2010], following a mother and daughter in Taoyuan County who were diagnosed in early [April 2010], the CDC said. The Taoyuan mother and daughter were treated with botulinum antitoxin.
Related stories:
18 Apr 2010- Four cases confirmed in 2010
Centers for Disease Control, ROC (Taiwan) [in Chinese, trans. Rappt.AH, edited][ProMed]
22 May 2010- Taipei county reports two more cases of botulism, soybean products suspected
Focus Taiwan, Central News Agency (CNA) [edited][ProMed]
Focus Taiwan, Central News Agency (CNA) [edited][ProMed]
Vietnam- Drug residue found in meat
16 Apr 2010
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
Tests have revealed that chicken meat and pork sampled in Hanoi contained several illegal drugs, the Viet Nam Food Administration reported on Wednesday [14 Apr 2010].
Of the 72 pork samples, one had salbutamol, a drug to treat asthma, and 8 had clenbuterol, which is used by people with breathing disorders, the administration was quoted as saying at a conference on food safety held in Hanoi. 4 of 72 chicken meat samples had salbutamol and 10 had clenbuterol.
While farmers use the drugs to stimulate the growth of poultry and cattle, Viet Nam has banned them from farm use since 2002 because they have been found to cause heart disorders, headaches, and nausea in people who eat the meat.
Also at the conference, the administration said they found that vegetables and fruits sold in Hanoi contained chemical substances at levels of up to 13-15 percent higher than regulated.
Taiwan- DOH encourages cooking of packaged foods
14 Apr 2010
The China Post [edited][ProMed]
Department of Health (DOH) officials urged consumers to cook their food and dishes well after 3 residents in Taoyuan County fell ill after eating packaged foodstuffs contaminated by botulinum toxin.
In the 1st reported botulinum toxin case in Taiwan this year [2010], a 61-year-old woman and her daughter, 41, are still under intensive medical care while the woman's son-in-law also showed moderate symptoms, said DOH officials yesterday [13 Apr 2010].
The DOH has started tracing the sources of the packaged vegetarian foods,mainly imitation dried meat, pig legs, and preserved bean curd for vegetarians the 3 purchased on their trip to southern Chiayi andTainan districts during the Tomb Sweeping Festival holidays in late March (2010).
The mother and daughter were hospitalized on [1 Apr 2010] after showing symptoms like vomiting, muscle spasms, and blurred eyesight.
The son-in-law said they purchased the vegetarian food with vacuum packing at different markets on the trip.
DOH officials said vacuum packing is a modern method of storing food in an airless environment. But the food items can still be contaminated during packing, delivery or storage. They said consumers should choose products from credible food companies. But the most important step is to cook or boil the ready-to-eat foods well to eliminate bacteria that cannot survive high heat. The same practice should be also applied to other packaged foodstuffs and frozen foods, including the popular frozen dumplings with meat stuffing, the officials said.
A total of 9 people in Taiwan were poisoned by botulinum toxin and 2 died in 1986 after eating brine cured peanuts from a local supplier.
There were 12 confirmed cases in Taiwan area during the past 2 years, the officials said.
Related Stories
16 Apr 2010Two cases (one fatal) of botulism, dried bean curd or preserved oysters suspected
The China Post [edited][ProMed]
Vietnam- Another cholera case found in Ho Chi Minh City
10 Apr 2010
Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
A 3rd case of cholera was confirmed on [9 Apr 2010] in Ho Chi Minh City at the Tropical Disease Hospital, prompting the city Health Department to call for measures to prevent a possible epidemic.
The latest patient is a male university student from Ho Chi Minh City's Ward 7, District 5. He was hospitalized on [6 Apr 2010] suffering from acute diarrhea, vomiting, and severe dehydration. The student said that a day earlier he had eaten a meal of rice, sour soup and braised pork at a street eatery near the city's Bong Bridge, Binh Thanh District. Soon after eating, he experienced a stomachache, which then led to severe diarrhea and vomiting over the next several hours. According to the Tropical Diseases hospital, several patients suffering severe diarrhea have been seen over the past several days, including some acute cases. Most patients said they had eaten food sold at street stalls before falling ill.
Related stories:
20 Apr 2010- Ho Chi Minh City announced 2 more cholera patients
Sai Gon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited] [ProMed]
Two more people tested positive for the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, a hospital reportedly said.
The 2 patients are a 25-year-old man, who experienced the symptoms of cholera on [14 Apr 2010] and his 18-month-old son, who [was discharged and] came back his hometown in the Mekong delta province of Tra Vinh on [19 Apr 2010] with his grandmother.
Health workers disinfected the area and raise awareness about the disease and provide residents there with a 5000 liter safe water tank because people living in boats lack hygienic water for drinking.
The city has so far reported 7 cholera cases.
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited] [ProMed]
A total of 5 people have been infected with Vibrio cholerae in Ho
Chi Minh City so far, according to an official from the municipal health department.
The 5th case was a female pupil from Hong Bang junior high school in
District 5, who tested positive for the bacterium on [12 Apr 2010]. She is the sister of a male student who contracted the disease on [9 Apr 2010]. The results of an epidemiological survey have shown that all these cases of infection are related to food vendors operating near schools, which usually do not meet hygiene requirements.
Ho Chi Minh City has launched a hygiene campaign to raise public awareness of this and to closely monitor people suspected of having the disease. Vuong Phan Kim, an official from the District 5 People's Committee, said her district has taken preventive measures such as advising pupils not to eat unhygienic food, spraying disinfectant, improving the quality of canteens and taking samples from food and drinks sold by vendors.
13 Apr 2010- Acute diarrhea spreads to Bac Ninh and Ho Chi Min city
Radio The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) News [edited][ProMed]
08 Apr 2010-First cholera patient reported in Ho Chi Minh city
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
Philippines- Food poisoning downs 70 in North Cotabato
08 Apr 2010
Inquirer.net [edited][ProMed]
A total of 70 lumad [indigenous residents] have been brought to the hospital due to food poisoning after eating wild yam, a social welfare officer was reported as saying. The victims were from Arakan, President Roxas and Tulunan towns. None of the victims died, official sources reported.
Cambodia- Food poisoning
01 Apr 2010
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Monks received treatment at a hospital on Wednesday [31 Mar 2010] for food poisoning. At least 48 monks in Kandal province's Kien Svay district, have been treated for food poisoning in Phnom Penh hospitals since Monday [29 Mar 2010], health officials were quoted as saying. The cause of the food poisoning is believed to be uncooked vegetables, health officials were quoted as saying.
Vietnam- Chemical contamination, lollipop
30 Mar 2010 Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited][ProMed]
Three days after the Food Hygiene and Safety Department ordered the seizure and destruction of "Fluorescent lollipops" that contain a cancer-causing substance in their sticks, vendors are still selling the candy in Ho Chi Minh City [HCMC] and Hanoi.
Cartons of the lollipops, containing 20-30 each, are still being sold at market in District 6 as well as in front of some schools and hospitals including.
The lollipops can also be purchased from independent street peddlers for just VND 2000 [USD 0.1] each.
On [29 Mar 2010] in Hanoi, a joint inspection team found 4 boxes of the lollipops for sale at a stall on Hang Giay Street.
On [26 Mar 2010], the Health Ministry's Food Hygiene and Safety Department ordered its units nationwide to quickly seize and destroy the candy, which lists no manufacturer or place of origin.
The lollipops' sticks glow due to the presence of polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), a toxic substance that can cause cancer.
Related stories
27 Mar 2010- Contaminated lollipops
Saigon Giai Phong (SGGP) Daily [edited]
VietNamNet Bridge, Viet Nam News (VNS) [edited][ProMed]
A high proportion of imported fruit recently tested by health inspectors was found to be contaminated with potentially harmful levels of chemicals, the Viet Nam Food Hygiene and Safety Department reportedly said on Wednesday [24 Mar 2010].
Of 10 tangerine samples imported from China, 2 tested positive for excessive quantities of deltamethrin, a synthetic insecticide. Meanwhile, of 40 samples of pear, grape, red apple, and tangerine of Chinese origin tested for harmful substances, 4 had excessive amounts of preservatives derived from chloride, while 8 samples were shown to have excessive amounts of organic pesticide.
The report was released at a conference on food hygiene and safety organised by the Ministry of Health in Ha Noi. An official reportedly said most of the insecticides and preservatives found in the fruits contained a significant proportion of pyrethroid, a synthetic pesticide that is harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms but is generally harmless to humans, but could become dangerous after long term exposure.
The conference also heard that of 1500 samples of meat and meat products from across the country tested recently, 41 per cent had Salmonella, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning gastroenteritis and typhoid.
An official also reported that in 2009, 20 per cent to 40 per cent of health violations related to poor or missing labelling on packaging. 20 per cent of samples taken were also shown to be sub-standard. Furthermore, just 20 to 30 per cent of the food enterprises inspected were certified to operate.
Vietnam- Food poisoning killed 35 last year
26 Mar 2010
Thanh Nien Daily [edited][FSNet]
Thirty-five people were killed by Vietnam’s 152 major food poisoning cases last year, authorities said at a health conference in Hanoi Wednesday.
More than half of the 5,200 people poisoned got sick while at home or visiting friends’ houses, while only 4 percent were caused by street food, the ministry’s Vietnam Food Administrator reported.
Others cases were brought on by food at parties and factory canteens.
Representatives at the conference also said that recent tests had revealed that many shipments of Chinese-import fruits were contaminated by high levels chemical substances and insecticides.
Ten percent of China restaurant meals use "oil" from drains and gutters
19 Mar 2010
China Daily [edited][FSNet]
Oil from China’s drains and gutters treated to look like edible cooking oil in a lucrative night-time operation is being used in “1-in-10” restaurant meals in China.
The swill oil is apparently loaded with aflatoxin.
It was reported that a recent student investigation in Wuhan found 2-3 million tons of ‘swill oil’ makes its way back to rice boxes and meals out each year. It is usually sold as pig feed.
A professor on oil and toxin was quoted as saying the conspiracy starts at night when swill-fishers hollow out the stinking hogwash from urban sewages, followed by filtrating, heating, subsiding, dividing, and then in the morning comes out the clear-looking "edible" oil for unwitting customers.
Vietnam: Cholera (Hanoi)
18 Mar 2010
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
A 28-year-old woman in Tay Ho district was hospitalized at a hospital on 12 Mar 2010 in serious condition, but has been released.
After 5 days, the woman completely recovered and left the hospital on 17 Mar 2010. This is the 1st cholera case in Hanoi in 2010. The Central Epidemiology Institute has been investigating the possible source of the cholera.
Thanh Nien News, Viet Nam News Agency report (VNA) [edited][ProMed]
A team of inspectors destroyed hundreds of kilograms of bean sprouts this week [February 2010].
Local traders usually used 2 ml bottles of SHS that costs VND 1500-2000 (USD 0.08-0.11) in the market to soak 11-12 kilograms of the beans. The beans would then sprout 2 days faster than normal. The green chemical that smells like pesticide also causes the bean sprouts to store water and thus weigh 1.7 times more.
The use of SHS is banned in Viet Nam and the families had smuggled it in from abroad.
The chemical is also known as "leaf fertilizer" among Vietnamese farmers as they spray it on the leaves of plants and trees, and sometimes their trunks, to kill insects.
The Ministry of Health has banned the use of SHS, but many farmers still inject it into fruits to keep them fresh for longer periods.
South Korea ex Indonesia- Cholera
19 Feb 2010
The Korea Herald [edited][ProMed]
According to media sources, Korean health authorities on Friday [19 Feb 2010] confirmed the country's 1st cholera patient of 2010. The unidentified patient who had visited Jakarta and Bali showed symptoms of the disease upon arrival and was checked by the quarantine office at the airport, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [KCDC] was reported as saying.
The checkup showed the person testing positive for Vibrio cholerae O1, biotype Ogawa. The KCDC said it has acquired the list of 22 people who had traveled with the cholera patient to check if they had caught the disease as well.
19 Feb 2010
The Korea Herald [edited][ProMed]
According to media sources, Korean health authorities on Friday [19 Feb 2010] confirmed the country's 1st cholera patient of 2010. The unidentified patient who had visited Jakarta and Bali showed symptoms of the disease upon arrival and was checked by the quarantine office at the airport, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [KCDC] was reported as saying.
The checkup showed the person testing positive for Vibrio cholerae O1, biotype Ogawa. The KCDC said it has acquired the list of 22 people who had traveled with the cholera patient to check if they had caught the disease as well.
Cambodia- Ministry confirms cases of cholera
15 Feb 2010 The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
The Ministry of Health has reported that more than 100 Cambodians have tested positive for cholera since November [2009], reversing its initial refusal to confirm the presence of the disease and simultaneously defending its handling of the outbreak.
Speaking at a joint press conference held with the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday [12 Feb 2010], Minister of Health Mam Bunheng said there had been 128 confirmed cholera cases and one death. About 65 percent of the cases involved children under the age of 15, and the single recorded fatality was an 82-year old man from Takeo province who died after contracting cholera in January [2010], he said.
Prior to 12 Feb 2010, ministry officials had not released any information about cholera cases.
Officials reportedly said the ministry had taken immediate action after the 1st case was confirmed, visiting provinces in which potential cases had been reported to educate residents about the importance of frequent hand washing, covering toilets, and boiling drinking water. The official also reported that the ministry had distributed oral rehydration salts, intravenous fluids, and chlorine for disinfecting water.
Related stories
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
16 Feb 2010- Institute confirms more cases of cholera
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
25 Feb 2010- Cholera still spreading
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
The Phnom Penh Post [edited][ProMed]
Vietnam ex Cambodia- Cholera strikes Mekong Delta
08 Feb 2010
VietNamNet Bridge/Viet Nam News [edited][ProMed]
Seven patients in 5 weeks have gone down with cholera in the Mekong delta province of An Giang, putting the provincial health department on high alert to prevent an epidemic.
An official told media sources that the patients were all from Cambodian provinces that have borders with Viet Nam.
The An Phu District hospital director reportedly said the 1st cholera patient was a 9-year-old girl from Takeo Province in Cambodia. When [the girl] was hospitalised, she was in cardiovascular collapse and had extremely low blood pressure. Two days later, [her] sister was also hospitalised in the same condition. 3 other patients who lived in the same neighbourhood were later hospitalised with cholera. Family members of the patients said they had used water from the same river to cook and drink and had eaten raw fresh water clams. One hour after eating, they started vomiting continuously and had diarrhoea.
An Phu District of An Giang has a border gate with Cambodia where cross-border trading happens frequently, which can cause cholera to spread very fast. The province's Health Department intensified its inspections of food stands in local markets.
Vietnam- Methanol, aldehyde found in southern Vietnam rice wine
06 Feb 2010
VietNamNet Bridge/Thanh Nien [edited]
Rice wine with excessive chemical substances added to it killed 5 people and sent 23 to hospital between Saturday [30 Jan 2010] and Monday [1 Feb 2010] in the central province of Ninh Thuan, a local health official told media sources on 3 Feb 2010.
The official reportedly said tests showed that 2/3 of the liquor's samples taken from shops in Ma Trai Hamlet in Phuoc Chien Commune contained methanol amounts 192 times higher than regulated.
A chemical usually used in paint and fuel, methanol is highly toxic for humans. As little as 100 milliliters of methanol can cause blindness. Viet Nam limits methanol to 0.1 milligrams per liter for liquor.
The samples of rice wine, locally known as ruou trang, were also found containing aldehyde, another toxic chemical, in quantities 7 times higher than regulated 20 milligrams per liter, according to tests.
VietNamNet Bridge/Viet Nam News [edited][ProMed]
Seven patients in 5 weeks have gone down with cholera in the Mekong delta province of An Giang, putting the provincial health department on high alert to prevent an epidemic.
An official told media sources that the patients were all from Cambodian provinces that have borders with Viet Nam.
The An Phu District hospital director reportedly said the 1st cholera patient was a 9-year-old girl from Takeo Province in Cambodia. When [the girl] was hospitalised, she was in cardiovascular collapse and had extremely low blood pressure. Two days later, [her] sister was also hospitalised in the same condition. 3 other patients who lived in the same neighbourhood were later hospitalised with cholera. Family members of the patients said they had used water from the same river to cook and drink and had eaten raw fresh water clams. One hour after eating, they started vomiting continuously and had diarrhoea.
An Phu District of An Giang has a border gate with Cambodia where cross-border trading happens frequently, which can cause cholera to spread very fast. The province's Health Department intensified its inspections of food stands in local markets.
Vietnam- Methanol, aldehyde found in southern Vietnam rice wine
06 Feb 2010
VietNamNet Bridge/Thanh Nien [edited]
Rice wine with excessive chemical substances added to it killed 5 people and sent 23 to hospital between Saturday [30 Jan 2010] and Monday [1 Feb 2010] in the central province of Ninh Thuan, a local health official told media sources on 3 Feb 2010.
The official reportedly said tests showed that 2/3 of the liquor's samples taken from shops in Ma Trai Hamlet in Phuoc Chien Commune contained methanol amounts 192 times higher than regulated.
A chemical usually used in paint and fuel, methanol is highly toxic for humans. As little as 100 milliliters of methanol can cause blindness. Viet Nam limits methanol to 0.1 milligrams per liter for liquor.
The samples of rice wine, locally known as ruou trang, were also found containing aldehyde, another toxic chemical, in quantities 7 times higher than regulated 20 milligrams per liter, according to tests.
Related stories
25 Feb 2010- Alcohol poisoning kills 4 people in central Vietnam
Thanh Nien News [edited]
Authorities in the central highlands province of Gia Lai on Tuesday [23 Feb 2010] reported that 4 locals died last week [week of 15 Feb 2010] after drinking spurious rice wine.
Earlier this month [February 2010] the central province of Ninh Thuan had also reported that rice wine with excessive amounts of methanol and aldehyde had killed 5 local people and hospitalized 23.
31 Jan 2010
SGGP [edited][FSNet]
The unlawful sale of live, unquarantined chickens in Ho Chi Minh City has increased dramatically in the lead-up to Tet (Lunar New Year), with 212 illicit businesses recently discovered, the city’s Sub-department of Animal Health has said.
Most of the illegal activity is concentrated in 14 city districts including 4, 8, 9, 12, Go Vap, Tan Binh, Binh Chanh and Hoc Mon.
Over the past week, Animal Health officials uncovered 144 cases of unlawful chickens sales. They also seized and destroyed nearly 1,100 chickens, 250 kilograms of chicken meat, and 5,700 eggs.
The unsafe slaughtering of chickens has also been on the rise, officials reportedly said.
The HCMC People’s Committee has ordered the establishment of four inspection delegations to monitor the purchase, sale and transport of chickens in the city; and to prevent an outbreak of avian flu during Tet.
Nelson Mail [edited][FSNet]
A campground in New Zealand is set to reopen after a norovirus outbreak was linked to the camp’s water supply.
Media sources report the outbreak of suspected norovirus at the Golden Bay Holiday Park may have been caused by sewage contaminating a creek running through the campground.
During a routine bathing water survey of the area's beaches a fortnight ago, Tasman District Council environmental protection officers found high levels of E. coli contamination at the mouth of the Tukurua Stream, which runs through the campground. The level was 700 most probable number (mpn).
An official reportedly said a level of 240mpn would see the council start "intensive monitoring". At 500mpn, signs would go up warning people not to swim in the water.
25 Feb 2010- Alcohol poisoning kills 4 people in central Vietnam
Thanh Nien News [edited]
Authorities in the central highlands province of Gia Lai on Tuesday [23 Feb 2010] reported that 4 locals died last week [week of 15 Feb 2010] after drinking spurious rice wine.
Earlier this month [February 2010] the central province of Ninh Thuan had also reported that rice wine with excessive amounts of methanol and aldehyde had killed 5 local people and hospitalized 23.
Fiji- Diarrhea (Viti Levu)
06 Feb 2010
Fiji Times [summ., edited][ProMed]
Dirty water appears to be the main cause of diarrhea cases at a hospital, as cases of infected people continue to rise. Over 200 people have been seen at the hospital in the last few days, and about 70 percent were admitted.
A Ministry of Health spokesman reportedly said they were trying to determine the cause of the problem, and this would involve collecting water samples. The official urged members of the public to take their advice and boil all drinking water.
06 Feb 2010
Fiji Times [summ., edited][ProMed]
Dirty water appears to be the main cause of diarrhea cases at a hospital, as cases of infected people continue to rise. Over 200 people have been seen at the hospital in the last few days, and about 70 percent were admitted.
A Ministry of Health spokesman reportedly said they were trying to determine the cause of the problem, and this would involve collecting water samples. The official urged members of the public to take their advice and boil all drinking water.
Vietnam- Rhodamine B Contamination
02 Feb 2010
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
A chili powder factory in Ho Chi Minh City [HCMC] has been suspended after its products were found to be contaminated with industrial dye rhodamine B, which is a carcinogenic substance, health officials reportedly said 29 Jan 2010.
Officials from the city's Health Department earlier took chili powder and reddening powder samples from the Kim Nga factory in Binh Tan District for testing. They found the chili powder from 500-gram packets produced on [20 Jan 2010] contained more than 51 milligrams of rhodamine B per kilo while the reddening powder produced that same day [20 Jan 2010] contained 33.4 milligrams of rhodamine B per kilo.
Rhodamine is an industrial dye used in the textile industry and is banned by the Viet Nam Ministry of Health from use as a food additive.
The samples were also found to contain other substances in larger amounts than permitted, the officials told media sources.
Related stories
15 Jan 2010-Rhodamine B contamination in chili powder
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
19 Jan 2010-Water melon seeds and red pepper contain toxic chemical
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
02 Feb 2010
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
A chili powder factory in Ho Chi Minh City [HCMC] has been suspended after its products were found to be contaminated with industrial dye rhodamine B, which is a carcinogenic substance, health officials reportedly said 29 Jan 2010.
Officials from the city's Health Department earlier took chili powder and reddening powder samples from the Kim Nga factory in Binh Tan District for testing. They found the chili powder from 500-gram packets produced on [20 Jan 2010] contained more than 51 milligrams of rhodamine B per kilo while the reddening powder produced that same day [20 Jan 2010] contained 33.4 milligrams of rhodamine B per kilo.
Rhodamine is an industrial dye used in the textile industry and is banned by the Viet Nam Ministry of Health from use as a food additive.
The samples were also found to contain other substances in larger amounts than permitted, the officials told media sources.
Related stories
15 Jan 2010-Rhodamine B contamination in chili powder
Thanh Nien News [edited][ProMed]
19 Jan 2010-Water melon seeds and red pepper contain toxic chemical
VietNamNet Bridge [edited][ProMed]
26 Feb 2010- City seasonings use possibly carcinogenic industrial dye
Thanh Nien [edited][ProMed]
Thanh Nien [edited][ProMed]
SGGP [edited][FSNet]
The unlawful sale of live, unquarantined chickens in Ho Chi Minh City has increased dramatically in the lead-up to Tet (Lunar New Year), with 212 illicit businesses recently discovered, the city’s Sub-department of Animal Health has said.
Most of the illegal activity is concentrated in 14 city districts including 4, 8, 9, 12, Go Vap, Tan Binh, Binh Chanh and Hoc Mon.
Over the past week, Animal Health officials uncovered 144 cases of unlawful chickens sales. They also seized and destroyed nearly 1,100 chickens, 250 kilograms of chicken meat, and 5,700 eggs.
The unsafe slaughtering of chickens has also been on the rise, officials reportedly said.
The HCMC People’s Committee has ordered the establishment of four inspection delegations to monitor the purchase, sale and transport of chickens in the city; and to prevent an outbreak of avian flu during Tet.
New Zealand- Sewage suspected in camp outbreak
28 Jan 2010 Nelson Mail [edited][FSNet]
A campground in New Zealand is set to reopen after a norovirus outbreak was linked to the camp’s water supply.
Media sources report the outbreak of suspected norovirus at the Golden Bay Holiday Park may have been caused by sewage contaminating a creek running through the campground.
During a routine bathing water survey of the area's beaches a fortnight ago, Tasman District Council environmental protection officers found high levels of E. coli contamination at the mouth of the Tukurua Stream, which runs through the campground. The level was 700 most probable number (mpn).
An official reportedly said a level of 240mpn would see the council start "intensive monitoring". At 500mpn, signs would go up warning people not to swim in the water.
Thailand- Cholera
(Pattani province)
26 Jan 2010
ASTV Manager Online [in Thai, trans., edited][ProMed]
A provincial health officer reportedly prepares the SRRT (surveillance rapid response team) to investigate and control a cholera outbreak in villages after cholera [bacteria] were found in village pipe water. A cholera outbreak in Pattani is still ongoing. Recently, the epidemic has spread to not only fishing communities on the Pattani riverbanks, but also to other villages located further away from rivers and the coastal area. One of the reasons is that people consume seafood that fishermen catch from infected areas. Nowadays, pipes water in the villages have been found to be infected with cholera [bacteria], and some villagers in 12 districts have contracted the disease. It has been requested that chlorine be added to water tanks in the villages in order to limit the spread of the disease. In the meantime, health care teams and SRRT have been set up to investigate and control the outbreak in the field. Since the beginning of 2010, there have been more than 80 people infected with cholera. Patients are distributed in every district. However, none of the patients is in critical condition. Pattani health officials make every effort to continually educate the communities and improve environmental sanitation in order to prevent a reemergence of the cholera outbreak.
23 Jan 2010
Chinese Business View [edited][translated][FSNet]
An effort to eliminate "xian shui mian" or "saliva noodles" said to be invented by King Wen of Zhou, founder of the Zhou dynasty over 3000 years ago, is being encouraged in Changxing town of Meixian county in northwest China's Shaanxi province.
Media sources reported on Thursday that the township government has launched a 500 yuan award for the first six families that do not treat their guests to "xian shui mian" during the New Year or Spring Festival.
An official with Changxing township government reportedly explained that they decided to alter the village dietary habits for the sake of their health since the noodle soup is reused many times and contains each diner's saliva. The repeated use of the soup has brought about the name "saliva noodle," and is considered unsanitary.
"Saliva noodle," which carries a meaning of "a meal of family community and harmony", is popular in villages in the counties of Meixian, Wugong and Qianxian. In weddings, funerals, festivals and birthday feasts, traditionally guests are treated to saliva noodle.
ASTV Manager Online [in Thai, trans., edited][ProMed]
A provincial health officer reportedly prepares the SRRT (surveillance rapid response team) to investigate and control a cholera outbreak in villages after cholera [bacteria] were found in village pipe water. A cholera outbreak in Pattani is still ongoing. Recently, the epidemic has spread to not only fishing communities on the Pattani riverbanks, but also to other villages located further away from rivers and the coastal area. One of the reasons is that people consume seafood that fishermen catch from infected areas. Nowadays, pipes water in the villages have been found to be infected with cholera [bacteria], and some villagers in 12 districts have contracted the disease. It has been requested that chlorine be added to water tanks in the villages in order to limit the spread of the disease. In the meantime, health care teams and SRRT have been set up to investigate and control the outbreak in the field. Since the beginning of 2010, there have been more than 80 people infected with cholera. Patients are distributed in every district. However, none of the patients is in critical condition. Pattani health officials make every effort to continually educate the communities and improve environmental sanitation in order to prevent a reemergence of the cholera outbreak.
Chinese Business View [edited][translated][FSNet]
An effort to eliminate "xian shui mian" or "saliva noodles" said to be invented by King Wen of Zhou, founder of the Zhou dynasty over 3000 years ago, is being encouraged in Changxing town of Meixian county in northwest China's Shaanxi province.
Media sources reported on Thursday that the township government has launched a 500 yuan award for the first six families that do not treat their guests to "xian shui mian" during the New Year or Spring Festival.
An official with Changxing township government reportedly explained that they decided to alter the village dietary habits for the sake of their health since the noodle soup is reused many times and contains each diner's saliva. The repeated use of the soup has brought about the name "saliva noodle," and is considered unsanitary.
"Saliva noodle," which carries a meaning of "a meal of family community and harmony", is popular in villages in the counties of Meixian, Wugong and Qianxian. In weddings, funerals, festivals and birthday feasts, traditionally guests are treated to saliva noodle.
Papua New Guinea- Cholera (East Sepik, Morobe, Madang provinces)
19 Jan 2010
Radio New Zealand International [edited][ProMed]
Another 500 people have been infected with cholera in Papua New Guinea over the holiday period, raising the total to about 1900 cases. Close to 40 people have died since the beginning of the outbreak more than 5 months ago.
China- Melamine, milk products
04 Jan 2010 English.ntdty.com [edited][ProMed]
A new milk safety scandal has broken out in China. Authorities in Shanghai have closed a dairy company and arrested 3 executives, after milk products were found to contain high levels of the toxic industrial chemical melamine.
According to the state-run Shanghai Daily, melamine was found in milk powder and condensed milk made by the Shanghai Panda Dairy Co. Ltd.
Melamine is a toxic chemical used for making plastic. When added to food it can make the protein content appear higher, but it is highly detrimental to human health.
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