Two people have died, and 60 others have been hospitalized following a suspected case of food poisoning during a church service in Luanda town, Vihiga County, on Sunday.
Among those admitted to Emuhaya Subcounty Hospital, Coptic Hospital, and Equator Hospital, three are in critical condition. The affected individuals reported symptoms including severe stomach pains, headaches, and diarrhea.
Relatives of the victims flocked to the hospitals, anxious to understand the cause of the suspected poisoning. Vihiga County Director of Health, Benjamin Induswe, confirmed the two fatalities and stated that 20 of the patients have since been stabilized.
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Initial tests conducted on the first group of patients yielded inconclusive results, prompting the need for further microbiological testing. “We are waiting for additional equipment to carry out detailed tests to determine the cause,” Induswe said.
The incident has been linked to food served during a church fundraiser attended by all the affected individuals. Health officials collected food samples for analysis at the Government Chemist to identify the source of the contamination.
Victims began experiencing symptoms on Monday morning, prompting a visit by security agents to the church to investigate the situation.
Luanda MP Dick Maungu expressed his sorrow over the tragedy and wished the victims a quick recovery. “I urge the public, health coordinators, and community health promoters to assist those still at home and ensure they receive medical attention,” Maungu said in a statement.
He also called on security personnel and public health officers to conduct thorough investigations and cautioned the public to remain vigilant, especially during the festive season.
