PRESS RELEASE

September 19, 2007
Contact: Deb Millsap
For Immediate Release

Health Department Alerts about Fish Toxin Symptoms

Collier County - The Health Department is currently investigating three cases of Ciguatera in family members who shared a fish meal earlier this week. All three patients are currently hospitalized. The toxic fish was caught near the Jolley Bridge on Marco, although the occurrence of toxic fish is sporadic and not all fish of a given species or from a given locality will be toxic. The Collier County Health Department is reminding residents and visitors to be aware of symptoms of Ciguatera poisoning.

Ciguatera is a toxin found in some predatory fish, especially those that prey on reef fishes. This could include the following predatory fish: barracuda, king fish, mackerel, grouper, jack, snapper and triggerfish. The fish suspected of causing illness in this case is a king fish. The symptoms related to Ciguatera poisoning are gastrointestinal and neurological in nature and may occur within one hour after eating a poisoned fish. Diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain usually occur within 24 hours of consumption. Neurological symptoms including pain and weakness of extremities, and temperature reversal (ice cream seems hot, hot coffee tastes cold) may also be present.

Severe cases can lead to paralysis, coma or death, however most patients fully recover within weeks.

Health officials urge anyone who experiences any of symptoms indicated above, after eating a predatory fish, to seek immediate medical attention. Recovery is significantly improved if symptoms are treated early.