Health Office Investigate Mass Poisoning Case In Pidie Aceh

Head of the Pidie Health Office, Dr. Arika Husnayanti

BANDA ACEH - The Pidie Health Service is currently investigating a case of mass poisoning at the birthday celebration of the Prophet Muhammad SAW in Gampong Cebrek, Simpang Tiga District, Pidie Regency, Aceh.

"Currently, we have sent several samples of food (rice boxes) and vomit from poisoned patients to the Aceh Food and Drug Administration (BPOM)," said Head of the Pidie Health Service, Dr. Arika Husnayanti, quoted by Antara, Thursday, October 21.

She explained that related to the case, it was true poisoning, but the cause was unknown and must be investigated further by BPOM.

"BPOM Aceh will examine several samples of food (rice boxes) ordered from different places to eat and the results will be delivered later," said Dr. Arika.

Previously, the Head of the Simpang Tiga Health Center, Eva Dorista, said that on Tuesday, October 19, it was suspected that 46 residents had food poisoning during the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's Birthday.

When the incident occurred, the Simpang Tiga Health Center team, assisted by the Kembang Tanjung Health Center and the Health Office, went directly to the location to open a post in the local Meunasah to make it easier for patients who needed treatment.

Eva estimates that around 30 patients received on-site treatment without needing a referral and now their condition is starting to improve.

The remaining 16 patients were referred to hospitals in different locations, including nine to TCD General Hospital, two to Mufid General Hospital, one to Citra Husada Hospital, and four to a midwife practice in Blangpaseh.

On the day of the incident the patient experienced nausea, vomiting, and some had shortness of breath followed by diarrhea, and headaches. They experience these symptoms by assuming after eating the birthday celebration rice.

"Currently, all patients are no longer being treated and declared cured," said Eva Dorista.