Key Update

At least 58 people fell ill, and one elderly woman died after allegedly consuming contaminated dahi bara (a popular street snack) in Pata Pur village under Dasharathpur block in Jajpur district in Odisha, raising serious food safety concerns. Villagers consumed the snack from a roadside vendor between 8:30 am and 9:30 am on Friday, following which symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and mild fever began appearing later in the day and night.

Patients Hospitalised

As symptoms worsened, families rushed the affected individuals to nearby government hospitals. When several patients did not show improvement, officials shifted 52 of them to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Jajpur. The affected include 25 children and 27 adults, while six others continue to receive treatment in the village.

Jajpur Chief District Medical Officer Dr Bijoy Kumar Mishra said all patients are currently stable, though some continue to have mild fever and gastrointestinal symptoms. He confirmed that the illness is linked to the consumption of dahi bara and the accompanying curry.

Officials Review Situation

In response to the incident, Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling and MP Dr Rabindra Kumar Behera visited the hospital, interacted with patients, and reviewed their condition. They also held discussions with district officials and directed authorities to ensure proper treatment for all affected.

Investigation Underway

Meanwhile, health authorities have launched an investigation into the suspected food poisoning case. Officials have collected food samples for laboratory testing and are working to trace the roadside vendor. They said the exact cause of contamination will be confirmed after the lab report.

Source: Times Entertainment

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