ILOILO – Following a recent food poisoning incident at San Jose Elementary School in Miag-ao town, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has released food safety guidelines to help prevent similar cases during the holiday season.
IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon emphasized the importance of observing food safety practices to ensure that everyone can celebrate Christmas and New Year in good health.
“We want everyone to have a happy and complete holiday celebration. Following food safety tips is crucial, especially with the numerous Christmas parties, reunions, and gatherings this season,” Quiñon said.
The IPHO’s recommended safety tips include:
* Proper Handwashing – Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before handling or preparing food.
* Separation of Ingredients – Keep raw meat and fish separate from vegetables during preparation.
* Cleaning Ingredients – Wash all ingredients properly before cooking.
* Use of Separate Utensils – Use different chopping boards for meat and fish, and another for vegetables, to avoid cross-contamination.
* Cooking and Serving – Cook food to the correct temperature and serve it immediately. Avoid leaving cooked food on the table for more than four hours.
* Quality Assurance – For large gatherings, smell and taste food before serving to ensure its quality.
* Storing Leftovers – Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator using proper food storage containers.
IPHO’s advisory came after 28 individuals, including students and their families from San Jose Elementary School experienced stomach pain, vomiting, and loose bowel movement after attending a Christmas party on December 6.
The affected individuals were treated at the Miag-ao First Aid Clinic and discharged in good condition after a few hours.
Initial reports from the Miag-ao Rural Health Unit (RHU) and IPHO indicated a clustering of foodborne illness cases in Barangay San Jose beginning December 6.
During the party, participants shared a meal, and symptoms began to appear within an hour, starting with one individual and later affecting others.
An investigation is ongoing to determine the source of the food poisoning, whether it stemmed from the food served or the beverages consumed.
Dr. Quiñon stressed the need for preventive measures, especially as more Christmas parties are expected across the province in the coming weeks.
“This investigation is vital to provide appropriate recommendations and prevent similar incidents in the future,” Quiñon said./PN
