25 suspected food poisoning cases reported at Ho Chi Minh City elementary school

The municipal Department of Health said on Tuesday that between Saturday and Monday, four hospitals across the city admitted patients displaying symptoms consistent with foodborne illness.

The cases include 23 students and two adults.

The affected individuals were treated at Nguyen Thi Thap Hospital (13 students), Children’s Hospital 2 (nine students), Khanh Hoi Hospital (one student), and Gia Dinh People’s Hospital (two adult caregivers).

Patients suffered abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and fever.

Among them, one child admitted to Children’s Hospital 2 developed severe symptoms, including high fever, significant dehydration leading to shock, convulsions, and metabolic acidosis.

After intensive treatment, including anti-shock measures, high-dose vasopressors, and mechanical ventilation, the child’s condition improved markedly within 24 hours.

The patient regained consciousness, while both vasopressor support and ventilator assistance were successfully discontinued.

Health officials stated that all patients are now in stable condition and are being closely monitored.

The municipal Department of Health also issued public guidance, urging residents not to self-medicate if food poisoning is suspected.

Specifically, individuals are advised against using anti-diarrheal drugs or antibiotics without medical supervision.

People experiencing persistent vomiting or diarrhea are encouraged to seek medical attention promptly.

Early treatment, particularly proper hydration and electrolyte replacement, can significantly improve recovery outcomes.