Athletes suffer mass food poisoning in Kazakhstan

On January 21, 22 athletes aged between 12 and 17 suffered food poisoning at a recreational facility in Kazakhstan’s Zhambyl Region. This was reported by Sputnik Kazakhstan.

According to reports, the teenagers had traveled to the region from Kyzylorda Region to take part in a training camp for wrestling. A total of 103 young athletes and 13 coaches were accommodated at the facility. Food poisoning symptoms were reported in 22 children.

“The preliminary diagnosis is gastroenteritis of unknown etiology (inflammation of the stomach and small intestine lining). To determine the cause of the illness, laboratory samples were taken from the patients and food products, and test results are currently pending. The Regional Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control is conducting the necessary inspection,” the official statement said.

The condition of those hospitalized has been assessed as mild, and their overall health status is satisfactory. The teenagers remain under constant medical supervision. Local authorities reported that district police are investigating the incident.

In addition, on the instructions of Zhambyl Region Governor Yerbol Karashukeyev, deputy governors visited the site and held an emergency meeting. It was separately noted that all children are currently under medical observation.

It is worth noting that earlier reports said 52 people were poisoned by an unknown gas on a train in Almaty.