CVIRAA: No food poisoning, heat stroke involving athletes

CEBU, Philippines — Over 30 athletes participating in the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) Regional Meet 2024 have been provided medical attention all throughout the 6-day event, but organizers have clarified that none is heat-related or caused by food-poisoning as posted in some social media platforms.

CVIRAA medical director Dr. Rhoel Dejano told The Freeman that they already checked with hospitals, billeting quarters and medical teams for cases of food poisoning but none have been confirmed.

Dejano, however, said he was aware that there was spoiled food reported in one delegation, but it was not eaten by the athletes.

“No such thing as food poisoning. I checked with the hospitals and the rest and walang athlete na na-admit because of this,” Dr. Dejano said.

The CVIRAA Organizing Committee also clarified earlier that the provision of food to members of an athletic delegation falls under the responsibility of the participating schools division or local government unit and not the host city.

Even with that, however, the organizers have assured that everyone has been attended to.

The organizers have also urged the public “to exercise caution and responsibility when sharing information on social media platforms. It is imperative to verify facts before making any conclusions or allegations.”

During the meet’s solidarity meeting, Dr.Dejano also said that delegation officials were reminded on food preparations and hydration, among others.

Vendors in the billeting area and playing venues have also been discouraged from selling food to ensure that everything is safe.

The Freeman learned that regarding the spoiled food, Talisay City Mayor Samsam Gullas already took action on it right away and met with the delegation officials and its private supplier regarding the athletes’ complaints on their food.

Aside from the issue of food poisoning, Dr. Dejano also clarified that the pictures of athletes collapsing that was also posted on social media are not due to direct heat, but simply fatigue from the battle and had been given medical attention right away.

“Naay mga gi-post nga pictures nga mga nangakuyapan, but it’s not heat related, late naman gani tos hapon. Ang uban, nakuyapan because of fatigue. Walay nadala sa hospital,” Dr. Dejano said.

There was a gymnast that underwent an operation but it was during a practice session and was immediately discharged.

Others had fever, minor injuries, and a cat bite, but were also discharged right away.

The Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) had also set up a fast lane for athletes to be given immediate medical attention.

Dr. Dejano said whatever issues have come up has become become a learning experience for them to improve further for the Palarong Pambansa 2024 set this July, also here in Cebu City. — /ATO (FREEMAN)