There are now 17 confirmed cases of conch poisoning here in The Bahamas according to the health minister however, that number could potentially spike to more than 60, as unconfirmed reports suggest that dozens of persons were poisoned at a function over the weekend.
Health Minister Dr. Sands told Eyewitness News early Wednesday morning, that the increase may or may not be the case. It’s a matter, he said, for his ministry’s surveillance team to confirm.
“Our PMH records record three persons with diarrhea illness yesterday,” Dr. Sands said.
“They would be listed as possible cases.”
The first cases of conch poisoning were documented back on July 1.
The outbreak was originally pegged to Potter’s Cay Dock, however, the issue quickly moved to private functions and other venues.
One person who fell victim to the stomach-wrenching disorder spoke to Eyewitness News about his ordeal, and encouraged business establishments to take heed of the Ministry of Health’s warning of being vigilant in how they clean the Bahamian delicacy, before preparing it for consumption.
“We have to take this message from the government very seriously,” he stated.
“It’s proper hygiene and the government has to educate us about the bacteria that is going around, and just stress the importance of cleaning before they serve it to the customers.”
According to the Ministry of Health, conch poisoning can be avoided by ensuring that the conch is washed thoroughly in fresh water.
