Rat Poisoning Cluster Linked to Homemade Foods in Queensland
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A cluster of rat poisoning cases in south-east Queensland, affecting five people including a child, has been linked to two homemade, unlabelled food items. Health authorities are urging residents of the Logan area to be vigilant and discard any similar products they may have acquired.
Queensland Health confirmed Friday night that initial testing of a homemade capsicum and chilli paste, and a marinated eggplant dish, both returned positive results for brodifacoum, a highly potent toxin commonly found in rat poison. Three of the individuals affected had consumed these food items, which officials believe were either purchased or gifted within the Logan area beginning in mid-September 2025.
Investigation Underway, Limited Distribution Suspected
The health department has issued a warning advising anyone possessing these products to dispose of them immediately. Authorities emphasize that the items do not appear to be “widely distributed,” suggesting a localized source of contamination.
“The identified products are homemade and do not appear to be widely distributed,” stated Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr. Catherine McDougall in a public statement. “It is believed they are available only very locally in the Logan community.”
While the investigation is ongoing, officials currently assess the risk to the broader community as not “broad.” However, they continue to encourage heightened awareness among Logan residents.
Understanding Brodifacoum Poisoning
Brodifacoum works by disrupting the body’s ability to utilize vitamin K, a crucial component in blood clotting. Symptoms of poisoning can include:
- Bleeding gums
- Unexplained bruising
- Blood in urine or stool
- Swelling of joints
According to a senior official, “No other possible cases of brodifacoum poisoning have been identified since the five individuals were reported last week.”
What to Do If You Suspect Exposure
Queensland Health advises anyone who believes they may have consumed the identified products, or is experiencing unexplained bleeding, to seek immediate medical attention. Residents are encouraged to visit their local general practitioner, hospital, or urgent care clinic for testing. Alternatively, they can contact 13 HEALTH for further guidance.
The investigation is being conducted in collaboration with Queensland police, and authorities have pledged to provide updates as they become available.
“We do not believe there is a widespread risk to the broader community however, we encourage people in the Logan area to be alert,” Dr. McDougall added. “The investigation remains ongoing, we are continuing to make further enquiries and will keep the community updated.”
