According to the spokesperson for the government of Guinea, over 50 fishermen in the West African nation have been admitted to hospitals with an unspecified skin condition. The announcement was made on Friday, following the launch of an official investigation into the matter the previous day.
Images circulating on various social media platforms depict afflicted fishermen with pustules and sores covering their faces, mouths, and limbs.
The spokesperson went on to confirm that a team of scientists had collected samples of seawater from the affected regions, which were currently undergoing analysis at laboratories located within Guinea.
Analyses carried out on fishery products brought in by the affected fishermen indicate they are safe to consume, the statement said.
In November 2020, hundreds of Senegalese fishermen contracted an unknown skin ailment with similar symptoms.