Sun May 18 19:10:46 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Over 80 residents of the women’s hostel at Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College fell ill with suspected food poisoning after consuming a chicken dish served at the hostel mess. While some were hospitalized, the College Principal in-charge stated that there is no confirmed evidence of food poisoning and the cause of the symptoms remains inconclusive. Authorities are investigating all possible sources of the illness, sending food samples for analysis, and reinforcing hygiene protocols in the hostel.

**News Article:**

**Suspected Food Poisoning Outbreak at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hostel**

**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, May 19, 2025** – More than 80 female residents of the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College hostel have fallen ill following a suspected food poisoning incident. The incident occurred on Thursday, with students reporting nausea, stomach pain, and other discomfort after consuming a chicken dish in the hostel mess.

While a number of students were subsequently hospitalized, College Principal in-charge U. Anuja stated that there is no conclusive evidence to confirm food poisoning as the cause of the widespread illness. She noted that none of the affected students experienced serious health issues, and the precise cause of their symptoms remains under investigation.

The issue came to light on Friday when five students sought emergency medical attention for diarrhea. Subsequent to this, several other students exhibited similar symptoms, although the majority did not require hospital treatment.

With over 600 students residing in the hostel, college authorities are actively investigating all potential sources of the outbreak. Food samples have been sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Dr. Anuja assured that precautionary measures have been implemented, including enhanced hygiene protocols in the hostel kitchen and a focus on ensuring the supply of clean drinking water. The Food Safety, Microbiology, and Housekeeping departments are coordinating the follow-up actions. The incident is under further investigation.

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