More than 42 people fell ill with vomiting and diarrhoea after consuming food at a community feast in Kalapathar village under Baideswar police limits in Banki, Cuttack.
The feast was organised on the first death anniversary of a local resident.
Reports confirmed that 27 patients were admitted to Kalapathar Primary Health Centre, while others received treatment at home. A medical team rushed to the village to provide care and assess the situation.
Health workers initiated sanitisation measures by sprinkling bleaching powder and distributing ORS packets to affected families. Officials warned that the number of patients could rise in the coming hours.
An eight-member special team from Subarnapur Community Health Centre arrived to monitor the situation. Preliminary investigation indicated that contaminated food served during the feast caused the mass food poisoning.
Authorities are continuing their probe to determine the exact source of contamination. Villagers expressed concern over hygiene practices during large gatherings and urged stricter monitoring.
The incident highlights recurring challenges of food safety in community events across rural Odisha. Health officials assured that preventive measures will be strengthened to avoid similar outbreaks.
