The Dak Lak Provincial People's Committee imposed a fine of 80 million VND and a three-month suspension on Le Van Anh, 34, the owner of Quoc Hung baguette shop in Ea Drang commune. This action follows a food poisoning incident that affected 86 people, stemming from violations of food safety regulations. While serious, the violations did not warrant criminal prosecution. In addition to the fine and suspension, the establishment must cover all costs related to the incident's handling, including examination and treatment for the victims.

Poisoned patients receiving treatment at Ea H'leo Medical Center in late March. *Photo: Quang Nhat*.

According to authorities, the shop sold approximately 300 baguettes on 27/3. That evening, the first cases of poisoning emerged, presenting symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Over the subsequent days, the number of individuals requiring hospitalization grew, reaching a total of 86 cases.

Test results from the Central Highlands Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology confirmed the presence of bacteria. Out of 10 patient samples, five tested positive for Salmonella. Furthermore, food samples revealed two items, vegetables and ham, were contaminated with Salmonella, and one vegetable sample was found to contain E.coli bacteria.

Salmonella and E.coli are common culprits behind food poisoning and intestinal infections, frequently found in cases involving unsanitary food. Individuals infected with these bacteria typically experience symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.

Tran Hoa