Offshore worker suffers catfish barb infection, files $1 million suit

A deckhand claims he was refused medical treatment after being struck in the arm by a catfish barb.

Felipe Hernandez filed a $1 million lawsuit Oct. 14 against defendant Hung Van Do in New Orleans federal court, the Louisiana Record reports.

According to the suit, while employed aboard the F/V Capt. Dusty on June 1, 2011, Hernandez’ arm was pierced by a catfish barb. He asked for medical treatment and was allegedly refused. 10 days later, he was again struck in the arm by a barb which ultimately resulted in an infection that caused nerve damage.

Hernandez seeks compensation for physical and mental pain and suffering, medical expenses, maintenance and cure, loss of wages and lost earning capacity.

The defendant stands accused of negligence for failure to provide a safe working place, lack of proper safety equipment, failure to provide the plaintiff with medical care and forcing him to work in pain.

Read our article “Catfish barb injuries are no laughing matter” here. It recounts the story of a man whose finger was amputated after being struck by a catfish barb.