Ciguatera Fish Poisoning is a foodborne illness caused by eating fish contaminated with ciguatoxins. These toxins are produced by microscopic marine algae (Gambierdiscus toxicus) and accumulate in reef fish, primarily affecting consumers in tropical and subtropical regions. It is not contagious between people.
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Ciguatera has been recognized for centuries by indigenous island populations, with early European accounts dating back to Captain Cook's voyages in the 18th century. The causative *ciguatoxins* were chemically identified in the mid-20th century, confirming the link between specific algal blooms and human illness. It remains a significant public health issue in tropical coastal areas.
Ciguatera Fish Poisoning is transmitted exclusively through the consumption of contaminated fish. Microscopic marine algae (dinoflagellates) produce *ciguatoxins*, which are then eaten by herbivorous fish and bioaccumulate up the food chain to larger, predatory reef fish. Humans become ill after eating these toxic fish; it does not spread person-to-person.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
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As of 03 Mar 2026, Vanuatu is experiencing a ciguatera fish poisoning outbreak with 44 cases across six islands in six weeks, exceeding the national alert threshold. Environmental conditions, including elevated sea temperatures and reef ecosystem disturbance, are driving growth of toxin-producing marine algae, creating sustained transmission risk through the rainy season and beyond.
Source: BEACON - View Full Report
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View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-08
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