RSOE Emergency and Disaster Information Service

Situation Update No. 1

Posted:2010-02-28, 11:19:22 [UTC]

Ref.no.: EH-20100228-25149-PHL

Situation Update No. 1
On 2010-03-01 at 18:05:13 [UTC]

Event: Epidemic Hazard
Location: Philippines Province of Cagayan San Pedro

Number of Infected: 150 person(s)

Dozens of people were confirmed to have been infected with anthrax after eating double-dead carabao meat in Lasam, Cagayan. On Friday, more than 50 people, all of whom are residents of Barangay San Pedro in Lasam, were rushed to the Cagayan Valley Medical Center after being infected with the bacteria. Most of the victims were children between age 2 and 16. Doctors at the hospital said they have confirmed the infections were caused by anthrax from double-dead carabao meat. According to Richelle Ablangan, her husband and 2 children first experienced itching and body pains after eating a viand made from the carabao meat. Elena Ursua, meanwhile, said she bought the meat via credit just so she could serve a better meal, but ended up with children with anthrax infection. The Cagayan provincial health office is monitoring the situation of the victims, especially after reports of victims not seeking medical help due to lack of money. Dr. Danilo Alonzo, provincial health officer, said they have also bought antibiotics for the patients. Sixteen patients remain confined at the hospital. Meanwhile, the provincial health office is confirming reports of deaths of 2 residents in the area, allegedly caused by the anthrax bacteria.