Dozens Hospitalized in Quang Tri Suspected Food Poisoning, Salmonella Found

The Pasteur Institute of Nha Trang has released the results of its examination of food and patient samples related to a suspected mass food poisoning incident in Cam Lo district, Quang Tri province, central Vietnam, which led to the hospitalization of dozens of people. Out of 11 food samples collected for investigation, 9 tested positive for Salmonella spp. These included beef and fish cakes, vegetables, braised meat, sweet and sour stir-fry, cucumbers, bread, sandwiches, and sauce. Among the 13 patient samples, 11 also detected Salmonella spp., with one sample concurrently showing the presence of Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. The remaining two samples did not reveal any intestinal pathogens. This suspected mass food poisoning incident raises concerns about food safety in Quang Tri province, necessitating authorities to identify the cause and implement preventive measures. As Vietnam experiences economic growth, the increase in food distribution is accompanied by the ongoing challenge of ensuring thorough hygiene management.