Source of rat poisoning in SEQ identified

12 hours ago 3

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Authorities have identified the source of a suspected poisoning incident that resulted in five Logan residents, including a child, being hospitalised after they ingested rat bait last week.

Queensland Health has been working with police over the poisoning, with an alert issued on Friday urging people to be aware of two products – homemade capsicum and chilli paste, and a homemade marinated eggplant containing capsicum and chilli paste.

The health department said the products were unlabelled and may be circulating in the Logan community.

Authorities have identified the source of a suspected poisoning incident that resulted in five Logan residents, including a child, being hospitalised after they ingested rat bait last week.

Five people, from three separate families, presented to hospitals on Brisbane’s south side between October 12 and 17. One presented with a swollen joint, while another reported haematuria – blood in the urine.

Authorities believe they had ingested Brodifacoum, which is the active ingredient in rat poison that inhibits Vitamin K, which is essential for blood to clot. If ingested by humans, it can cause bleeding-related complications.

Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall said no other possible cases of the poisoning had been identified since the five individuals were reported last week.

“The identified products are homemade and do not appear to be widely distributed. It is believed they are available only very locally in the Logan community.

“We do not believe there is a widespread risk to the broader community however we encourage people in the Logan area to be alert.

“The investigation remains ongoing, we are continuing to make further enquiries and will keep the community updated.”

Anyone who may believe they have consumed the products or are experiencing bleeding that could not be explained were urged to visit their doctor, hospital or urgent care clinic for testing or call 13 HEALTH for advice.

“If people believe they may have any of the products at home, they are not safe to eat and should be thrown in the bin immediately. Please do not throw them away in the garden as pets could eat the products.”

Brodifacoum poisoning can present symptoms including bleeding gums, unexplained bruises, blood in urine or stool, and swelling of joints.