15 hospitalized in Kinmen for food poisoning, now recovered

KINMEN (TVBS News) — A group of 61 tourists from Taichung experienced symptoms of suspected food poisoning, including vomiting and diarrhea, after dining in Kinmen on Monday evening, Kinmen County's Public Health Bureau reported on Tuesday (May 28).

The incident occurred overnight into Tuesday (May 28), with 15 individuals severely affected and sent to Kinmen Hospital's emergency room, the bureau confirmed. They were promptly treated and have since returned to Taichung on Tuesday afternoon, with no serious health issues reported.

Following the incident, Kinmen Hospital's Deputy Superintendent, Chen Ken-hsiung, stated that most of the 15 patients were discharged after receiving medication.

Three individuals who were under observation were also released around 1 p.m.

The Public Health Bureau has initiated an investigation into the four restaurants where the group dined, collecting six environmental samples, including utensils and cutting boards, for analysis. Results from these tests, along with human samples taken from the patients, are expected within one to two weeks to identify the cause of the illness.

During their inspection, health officials identified several hygiene issues at the restaurants, such as inadequate freezer temperatures and water accumulation on kitchen floors.

The establishments have been ordered to rectify these problems within a specified timeframe or face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$200 million.

This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by health authorities to ensure food safety and public health, with results from the ongoing investigation eagerly awaited by the community.