Oman: Mass food poisoning in Dhofar due to contaminated seashells

Dubai: Dhofar Governorate recorded several cases of people suffering from food poisoning after eating seashells that were contaminated by the red tide phenomenon, local media has reported. The Ministry of Health said: “A number of health institutions in Dhofar Governorate have reported several cases of food poisoning due to eating seashells that contained poisonous substances as the beaches were affected by the red tide phenomenon.”

According to local media, several people fell sick at the beach and were rushed to hospital. They were discharged after receiving treatment.

“In such cases, the infected person may suffer from various symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, as well as other symptoms related to the nervous system like numbness, weakened movement and shortness of breath,” the ministry added.

The ministry urged fishermen and community members to avoid eating fish and seashells coming from the areas affected by the red tide. It has also called upon all to stay away from the areas suspected to be affected by the phenomenon to avoid poisoning.