A suspected food poisoning incident in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, has led to the hospitalization of 85 people after they consumed food at a temple festival in Kalvimadai village, Virudhunagar district. The incident occurred on Sunday, and officials confirmed the hospitalizations on Wednesday.

Attendees of the temple festival began experiencing symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea shortly after eating the provided meal. While some individuals were initially treated at local hospitals, a significant number were transferred to the Madurai Government Rajaji Medical College Hospital (GRH) due to the worsening of their symptoms. According to health officials, among those admitted, 55 are women and 11 are children.

Doctors at GRH suspect that the food poisoning may be linked to contaminated drinking water. However, medical authorities have assured that there is no life-threatening danger. A senior doctor stated that all patients have been moved to regular wards and are in stable condition under observation, expecting them to recover within two to three days. The medical team prioritized treating those who were dehydrated or had blood pressure issues.

Health authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the source of the contamination and implement measures to prevent future outbreaks.

In a separate incident in February 2025, 22 people, including a three-year-old girl, were hospitalized in Madurai after consuming grilled chicken from a local hotel. They experienced vomiting and diarrhea and were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Health officials inspected the restaurant and found violations of health regulations, including the use of polythene materials. The hotel was fined, and food samples were sent to Madurai Medical College for testing, while the Sholavandan police launched an investigation. In response to this incident, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is increasing inspections of high-risk food establishments in Tamil Nadu.