Approximately 30 individuals, primarily hospital staff, have reportedly experienced symptoms consistent with food poisoning after dining at two restaurants situated within Eastern Hospital premises.
The affected group complained of abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and vomiting subsequent to consuming meals from these establishments on Tuesday. Consequently, all afflicted personnel were unable to report to work on the following day.
Prompt actions were taken in response to the incident. Both implicated restaurants have suspended operations today to undergo thorough disinfection procedures. It has been disclosed that these dining venues were operated by Asia Pacific Catering, a subsidiary of Cafe de Coral. Importantly, they did not cater to hospital patients.
According to a statement from a hospital representative, one staff member expressed concerns regarding the quality and variety of food offerings at the affected restaurants, particularly citing constraints posed by limited lunchtime hours.
Moreover, it has been revealed that the hospital’s procurement process for restaurant services prioritizes cost efficiency, employing a bidding system where the lowest bid secures the contract. Remarkably, the current operator has held these contracts for several years.
Eastern Hospital administration has promptly notified both the Centre for Health Protection and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department regarding the incident. Additionally, they have issued directives for the disinfection of relevant facilities within the hospital premises.
