Compared to yesterday, the number of hospitalizations increased by 30, with patients receiving treatment at six medical facilities. Quang Ngai Province Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital admitted 42 children and pregnant women with suspected food poisoning symptoms, including abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. The children are receiving treatment in the Digestive Department, while three pregnant women are in the General Department, their health currently stable.

Phuc Hung Private General Hospital admitted 54 people, and Quang Ngai Provincial General Hospital received 28 people. Three regional hospitals in Mo Duc, Son Tinh, and Dang Thuy Tram admitted a total of 11 people.

All patients shared a common factor: they had eaten filled bread purchased from a street vendor at 12 Duy Tan street, Cam Thanh ward, before experiencing unusual symptoms. The cause is currently unknown.

Compared to healthy individuals, food poisoning in children and pregnant women can severely impact their health. Therefore, Doctor Huynh Linh Da, head of the General Department, advises pregnant women to seek medical examination at a healthcare facility if they experience any unusual symptoms. Prolonged vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, affecting the health of both the mother and the fetus. Self-medication without guidance from medical staff is not advisable.

Nguyen Duc Tam, Chairman of the Quang Ngai Provincial People's Committee, urgently requested an investigation into the cause, tracing the food's origin, collecting samples for testing, and addressing any violations found. The Department of Health is mobilizing personnel, equipment, and medication to treat patients and mitigate the risk of severe complications.

Child patients receiving treatment at Quang Ngai Province Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital. Photo: Kim Ny

Authorities have sealed the remaining food at the bread stall and temporarily suspended its operation for investigation. The Provincial Center for Disease Control is coordinating with relevant units to collect 13 food samples and nine patient samples for testing to determine the cause.

The Food Safety Authority (Ministry of Health) also urged local authorities to promptly trace the origin of ingredients, investigate the incident, and publicize the results of the handling to warn the community.

The aforementioned bread stall is a long-standing and well-known business in Quang Ngai.

Pham Linh