Key Update

An elderly man died in Mattannur, Kannur, after consuming a temple festival feast, while over 300 others fell ill. Vijayan (70) from Poovathumkandi, Peravoor, died yesterday morning while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Kannur. The incident traces back to April 6, when more than 300 people consumed food served at the Kara Puthiyedath Madappura Temple. Soon after, many reported illness and sought treatment at hospitals in Kannur, Thalassery, and Mattannur.

Contamination Suspected in Pachadi

Preliminary findings suggest that the food poisoning may have originated from the dish pachadi served during the temple festival feast. Health officials have collected samples of the pachadi and water for laboratory analysis. Those affected reported symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, and headache. By the afternoon of April 7, hospitals began witnessing a surge in patients, and several individuals continued to remain under treatment.

Authorities Await Post-Mortem Report

Officials stated that they will confirm the exact cause of death only after receiving the post-mortem report. Authorities cremated Vijayan’s body yesterday evening at the municipal crematorium in Porora. Meanwhile, Mattannur police have registered a case and initiated further investigation into the incident.

Source: twentyfournews