85 Hospitalised After Suspected Food Poisoning at Tamil Nadu Temple Festival

By A Staff Reporter

Madurai, June 11 — In a suspected case of mass food poisoning, at least 85 people have been hospitalised after consuming food during a temple festival held in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. The affected individuals were rushed to Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai, where hospital authorities confirmed that all patients are currently in stable condition.

According to hospital Dean Dr. A. Rathinavel, a few others showing similar symptoms have been admitted to various local hospitals within Virudhunagar district itself. “All patients brought to Rajaji Hospital are under observation and receiving appropriate medical care. Thankfully, none are in critical condition,” he stated.

Preliminary reports suggest that the illness may have been caused by contaminated food served during the community meal at the religious gathering. Symptoms reported include vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhoea, which began within hours of food consumption.

Local health officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the outbreak. Food samples have been collected from the site and sent for testing. Authorities are also tracing the origin of the food preparation and distribution process to identify possible lapses in hygiene or food safety.