Prachin Buri: Lab results have confirmed that a batch of chicken rice, consumed by teachers and students at a secondary school in Mueang District, Prachin Buri Province, was contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria known to cause food poisoning. The incident resulted in 23 individuals experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea, stomachaches, nausea, and vomiting, necessitating urgent medical attention.
According to Thai News Agency, the affected individuals, comprising both students and teachers, began showing symptoms shortly after their lunch break. Emergency measures were swiftly enacted, with school vans and emergency vehicles transporting those affected to local hospitals. The majority were treated at Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital, where 16 individuals received medical care. While most were discharged, a teacher remains under observation due to shock. At Chakkraphong Camp Hospital, seven students were treated and subsequently released.
The laboratory test results, released by Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital, confirmed the presence of Staphylococcus aureus in both the chicken rice and samples from patients' vomit. Furthermore, the bacteria were also found in a wound on the vendor's hand, indicating a likely source of contamination. Staphylococcus aureus is notorious for causing food poisoning through its enterotoxin, leading to acute gastroenteritis.
This incident underscores the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus as a leading cause of food poisoning globally, highlighting the critical need for stringent food safety practices. The school community and health authorities are working together to prevent future occurrences of such outbreaks.