The Ministry of Health has launched an investigation into a suspected case of ciguatera fish poisoning on the island.

It is suspected that the case was caused by a large amberjack eaten between June 30 to July 5.

The case, if confirmed, would be the first incidence of ciguatera poisoning this year.

Symptoms of ciguatera poisoning include diarrhoea, itchy skin, numbness, burning skin, nausea, vomiting, pain to limbs and fatigue or weakness.

Another telltale sign is the reversal of hot and cold sensations.

A government spokesman said: “Ciguatera poisoning is caused by toxins or poisonous substances from microscopic marine plants, which build up in large predatory fish.

“An older or larger predatory fish that has eaten many herbivorous fishes over a period of time has a greater risk of carrying CFP toxins than a younger or smaller fish of the same species.”

The toxins do not change the smell or taste of the fish and are not affected by cooking or freezing.

Anyone who is experiencing or has experienced symptoms of ciguatera poisoning after eating fish should contact a doctor.