Philippine victims warned against eating dead animals

MANILA - The Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday warned the public against eating dead animals, unwholesome meat and meat products that have been submerged in flood water following typhoon "Haiyan" that struck the country almost two weeks ago.

FDA Acting Director General Kenneth Hartigan-Go said typhoon " Haiyan" left trails of destruction as well as scores of dead animals, including livestock and poultry animals, in the devastated areas.

"Haiyan" that hit food establishments in the disaster areas have also left frozen meat and meat products exposed to the elements, some actually buried in soil and rubbles of collapsed houses and buildings, he noted.

"The public is warned against eating dead animals as well as consuming thawed frozen meat and meat products that had submerged in flood water for a long period of time," Go said, explaining that flood waters usually carry high loads of bacteria and filth.

"Industrial oil and chemical waste are common toxicants of flood water. Canned goods that have been submerged in water should be assessed for any contaminations," he added.

Eating dead animals that had not been bled or eviscerated immediately after dying are good source of microbial infections and toxins, the official said.