In two separate incidents of suspected food poisoning, a total of 99 students were hospitalized after consuming meals from their respective hostel canteens.
On Sunday, 42 students from a private engineering college in Erode fell ill after dinner at their hostel. According to a PTI report, the students experienced uneasiness and vomiting, prompting their transfer to Erode District Medical College Hospital. Authorities have confirmed that all affected students are in stable condition.
In a related case, 57 students from the SPC Institute of Nursing Education and Research were admitted to Salem Government Hospital on Monday morning, May 27, also due to suspected food poisoning. The New Indian Express reported that the students started feeling ill after consuming red pea curry on Sunday night, with symptoms worsening by Monday morning. Five of these students are currently receiving treatment in the ICU.
Mani, the dean of Salem Government Hospital, assured that efforts are being made for the students' speedy recovery. Salem District Collector R. Brinda Devi visited the hospital, and a comprehensive inspection led by Food Safety Officer M.R. Kathiravan resulted in the temporary sealing of the hostel canteen.