Authorities Identify Locally-Made Foods Linked to Queensland Rat Poisoning Cases
Logan, Queensland – Health authorities in Queensland have identified homemade food products as the source of a cluster of brodifacoum poisonings affecting five individuals.The products are believed to have been purchased or gifted in the Logan area from mid-September 2025 onwards and were only available locally.
brodifacoum is a common active ingredient in rat poison, working by thinning the blood through interference with vitamin K, essential for clotting. Symptoms of poisoning include bleeding gums, unexplained bruising, blood in urine or stool, and joint swelling.
Queensland Health is urging anyone who has purchased thes locally-made items to discard them instantly. while the products “do not appear to be widely distributed,” authorities are advising residents of the Logan area to be vigilant for symptoms.
“We do not believe there is a widespread risk to the broader community however, we encourage people in the Logan area to be alert,” saeid Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr. Catherine McDougall in a statement. “No other possible cases of brodifacoum poisoning have been identified since the five individuals were reported last week.”
The examination, conducted in conjunction with Queensland Police, remains ongoing. Individuals concerned about potential exposure or experiencing unexplained bleeding are advised to seek medical attention at their local GP, hospital, or urgent care clinic, or call 13 HEALTH for advice.
