Investigation of Suspected Carbon monoxide Poisoning Outbreak in Akure, Ondo State, 2014

On 11 June, 2014, a cluster of deaths of unknown cause suspected to be food poisoning were reported in Oke Ogba, Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State. We investigated to identify the source and to propose recommendations. A case was defined as a resident of the affected house that died or was hospitalized on 11th June, 2014.We line listed suspected cases and conducted environmental investigations. We collected and sent specimens of food for toxicology testing to identify a possible aetiological agent. Blood samples likewise underwent testing. th th Between 11 June and 28 June, 2014, 8 cases (5 children and 3 adults) were identified in the household (attack rate: 100%). Six deaths were recorded (case fatality: 75%). The case fatality rate was higher among children, 4 out of 5 (80%). More females (4/6, 67%) died than males. Food samples were not positive for any tested pathogen. There was evidence that an electricity generating set had been used prior to the incident. A walk through survey showed a poorly ventilated house with the generating set placed within the house. The switch of the generating set was at the on position. There was no fuel in the generator. The outbreak most likelyoccurred as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning from the fumes of a generating set used within a poorly ventilated house. There is a need for public education about proper housing ventilation, potential hazards of improperly used generating sets, and the effects of carbon monoxide.