Queensland Residents Hospitalised After Consuming Rat Poison

Queensland Health has launched an urgent investigation after fears that food contaminated with rat poison caused five people to be hospitalised in the city of Logan. In addition to investigating possible chemical contamination sources, Queensland Health is urging food businesses to review their pest control and chemical safety practices.

Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall confirmed that the department is investigating a cluster of suspected poisoning cases across the Metro South Health region. 

The patients, who are from three separate families, required treatment at Princess Alexandra and Logan Hospitals after presenting with unexplained bleeding-related symptoms - all are expected to recover.

Clinicians were advised to be on high alert for unexplained bleeding and coagulopathy, a disorder where blood fails to clot properly.

Queensland Health’s investigation

Health authorities believe the affected individuals may have ingested brodifacoum, a powerful anticoagulant used in rodent baits, through the consumption of contaminated food at a local takeaway restaurant.

Investigators are working to determine whether the contamination was accidental or deliberate, and Queensland Health is collaborating with food safety regulators to trace the source.

The department has not named the food establishment involved and is advising the public to seek medical help for any unexplained bruising, bleeding gums, or prolonged nosebleeds after eating takeaway food.

What is brodifacoum?

The substance at the centre of the investigation is brodifacoum - a highly potent anticoagulant commonly found in commercial rat poisons. It works by depleting vitamin K, which is essential for normal blood clotting.

Even trace amounts can cause severe internal bleeding, and treatment often requires high-dose vitamin K therapy that continues for several weeks. In rare cases, ingestion can be fatal.

This incident highlights how easily food can become unsafe when pest control chemicals are not handled correctly.

The importance of safe pest control measures

Pest control is essential for maintaining hygiene in food businesses - but if carried out incorrectly, it can create serious hazards.

The chemicals used to eliminate pests are highly toxic and must never come into contact with food, packaging or utensils. Contamination can occur when:

• Pesticides are applied near uncovered food
• Chemicals are stored alongside food ingredients
• Pest treatments are performed by anyone other than a licensed pest controller
• Pest treatments are conducted during operating hours
• Staff are unaware of contamination risks

How to prevent chemical contamination from pest control products

To protect customers and staff, food businesses should take the following precautions when implementing pest control measures:

• Use only licensed pest controllers who understand food safety regulations
• Schedule treatments outside food preparation hours
• Store pest control products securely and away from food or utensils
• Keep pest control logs and treatment records for inspection
• Train all staff to recognise chemical hazards and report contamination risks

These measures support compliance with the Food Standards Code and demonstrate due diligence during health inspections.

The Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS) offers practical resources to keep you informed about food safety developments worldwide. Begin by checking out more of our latest blogs.