Chelonitoxism outbreak caused from consuming turtle, Eastern Samar, Philippines, August 2013

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Foodborne Illness
• Marine Biology

Background:

• An outbreak of foodborne illness occurred in Eastern Samar, Philippines, in August 2013.
• The suspected cause was the consumption of sea turtle meat by local residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a foodborne illness outbreak linked to sea turtle consumption.
• To identify the source and risk factors associated with the outbreak.

Main Methods:

• Case definition included dry mouth and burning throat symptoms.
• A retrospective cohort study was conducted.
• Environmental investigation and key informant interviews were performed.

Main Results:

• Sixty-eight cases were identified, with a 6% case fatality rate.
• All cases reported consuming turtle meat, showing a dose-dependent relationship with illness severity.
• Consumption of turtle meat and soup were significantly associated with illness.

Conclusions:

• Sea turtle meat was confirmed as the source of the foodborne outbreak.
• The study underscores the severe health dangers and potential lethality of consuming turtle meat.
• Turtle consumption is an ongoing practice in the Philippines, posing a public health risk.