No link between eating raw fish and GBS disease: MOH

SINGAPORE - The Ministry of Health (MOH) said on Monday that they are investigating claims on social media regarding a disease linked to eating raw fish.

A text message circulating on social media claims that there is an outbreak of Group B streptococcus (GBS) here due to eating contaminated raw fish. The SMS claims that a man had eaten raw fish at Ayer Rajah market and was warded at the National University Hospital.

It also says that hospitals island-wide have been noticing a surge in the past few weeks of young and old men who have been sick with fever and painful swollen joints, due to a particular strain of bacteria.

MOH said on Facebook on Monday night that they are investigating the claims along with the National Environment Agency and Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority.

It also said there has been no proven link between eating fish, raw or otherwise, and GBS disease.

"GBS is a common bacterium that colonises the human gut and urinary tract. It does not usually cause disease in healthy individuals.

"However, in adults, GBS may occasionally cause infections of the skin, joints, heart and brains.

"The risk factors for GBS infection include underlying chronic or co-morbid conditions," wrote MOH.

klim@sph.com.sg