The family of Peni Nabanivalu is enduring immense sorrow after he and his wife, Seini, tragically passed away due to fish poisoning at Namunamu settlement in Mataso, Ra. The couple ingested the toxic eggs of a puffer fish, leading to their untimely deaths. Their teenage daughter, who also ate the fish, is currently being treated at Lautoka Aspen Hospital.
In an emotional moment at the Lautoka Hospital mortuary, Mr. Nabanivalu’s elder brother, Waisiki Masirewa, shared the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding the incident. A puffer fish caught from a nearby river was originally meant for their dog, and although Mr. Nabanivalu didn’t consume the fish flesh, he unknowingly ate its poisonous eggs. The family had their dinner at approximately 9 PM last Sunday, and within an hour, they began experiencing severe symptoms, prompting a rushed trip to the hospital. Unfortunately, they arrived too late to save the couple.
Mr. Masirewa articulated the profound loss felt by the family, highlighting the support and strength Mr. Nabanivalu had always provided. Funeral arrangements are being made for Friday as the family navigates this painful journey, with their daughter still hospitalized.
This unfortunate incident serves as a critical reminder of the hazards linked to consuming specific types of fish, emphasizing the importance of food safety awareness, particularly in areas where traditional fishing methods are prevalent. The family hopes their story will encourage greater education on the risks of fish consumption, fostering a proactive approach to avoid similar tragedies in the future. It stands as a poignant call to action for communities to engage in discussions regarding safe dietary practices, reinforcing the notion that increased awareness can lead to prevention.