Food Poisoning Reported in Kochi; One Critical, Hotel Shut Down

Kochi: A case of food poisoning has been reported in Ernakulam, with individuals falling ill after consuming shawarma and ‘shawaya’ (grilled chicken) from Real Arabia Hotel in Ravipuram, Kochi. Ann Maria (23), Jipson Shajan (22), and Albin (25), all residents of Irinjalakuda, were affected.

Following the reports of food poisoning, the Kochi Corporation’s health department immediately shut down the Real Arabia Hotel in Ravipuram. The incident occurred on June 16, when the affected individuals, who work in Angamaly, had come to Kochi for company-related work.

After consuming chicken shawarma and shawaya, they began experiencing discomfort, including vomiting, fever, and diarrhea, by evening. They initially sought treatment at a hospital in Kochi. When their condition worsened the next day, Ann Maria was admitted to a private hospital in Angamaly, where she works.

However, as her condition deteriorated further, she was moved to another private hospital and subsequently to a private hospital in Ernakulam. Her family has confirmed that she is currently receiving treatment in the ICU, and her health condition is improving. There are also reports that several other people who ate from the same hotel on that day experienced food poisoning, and a complaint has been filed with the Food Safety Department.