KATHMANDU: In Arjundhara Municipality-9, Jhapa District, 59 people who attended a puja have fallen ill due to food poisoning. The incident occurred after consuming offerings, including bread, pickles, and vegetables, distributed during the religious event at local resident Rita Niraula's house.

According to police reports, the affected individuals began showing symptoms of food poisoning throughout Tuesday. By Thursday, 52 of the 59 people had recovered and returned home after receiving medical treatment.

Medical doctors from Sanischare PHC in Jhapa reported that the patients experienced symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. The affected individuals ranged in age from children to the elderly.

While patients with more critical problems were sent to B & C Teaching Hospital and Manmohan Hospital in Jhapa for additional care, those with less severe symptoms were treated in a clinic in Kalisthan.

The source of the pollution is being looked into by the authorities, and steps are being taken to address the health issue and stop more occurrences.