PETALING JAYA (ANN/THE STAR) – A tragic incident of food poisoning in Gombak has claimed two lives and affected 82 individuals, believed to be linked to a meal of fried noodles and eggs served during the Program Kemahiran Amal Islami. The Selangor Health Department has initiated investigations into the matter.
According to Dr Ummi Kalthom Shamsudin, the state health director, out of the 247 individuals who consumed the meal, 82 exhibited symptoms, with two fatalities reported. The victims, including organisers, teachers, school staff, and family members, experienced symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach ache, fever, vomiting, and nausea.
The incident, which occurred on June 8, raised concerns as changes were observed in the appearance and taste of the fried eggs served. Victims, ranging from 19 months to 58 years old, sought outpatient treatment, with 28 cases reported, while two fatalities occurred outside healthcare facilities.
The deceased were identified as a 17-year-old and a 19-month-old, both suspected to have consumed the contaminated food brought home by family members. Investigations are ongoing, with food samples sent for analysis at the National Public Health Laboratory in Sungai Buloh to pinpoint the cause of the poisoning.
Dr Ummi Kalthom urged those experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention to prevent complications. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of vigilance in choosing food suppliers and ensuring hygiene standards.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek expressed condolences to the victims’ families, clarifying that the incident did not involve educational institutions under her ministry. She reminded all institutions to adhere to guidelines for event organisation and food preparation to prevent such incidents in the future.
