Health authorities in Pingtung County, Taiwan have launched an investigation into a suspected food poisoning incident that left seven people hospitalized after eating breakfast at a hotel in the popular tourist destination of Kenting.
The Pingtung County Public Health Bureau received notification Monday evening from Kaohsiung City’s Department of Health about patients being treated for suspected food poisoning at E-Da Hospital. Initial epidemiological findings indicated the incident occurred at a Pingtung County hotel, prompting local health officials to dispatch teams to collect samples for testing.
The seven affected victims were part of a 31-person group of New Taipei company employees who checked into Caesar Park Hotel in Kenting on Sunday. After consuming breakfast Monday morning, several guests developed symptoms including fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain around 10 a.m.
Seven people experiencing these symptoms sought medical attention at E-Da Hospital at approximately 7:15 p.m. Monday. All affected individuals have since been discharged from the hospital, according to county health officials. No additional related cases have been reported by other hospitals in the area.
Kaohsiung health authorities referred the case to Pingtung County for investigation since the suspected contaminated food was consumed within their jurisdiction. Health bureau personnel collected samples from the hotel for laboratory analysis as part of their ongoing investigation.
Caesar Park Hotel responded to the incident by proactively contacting the affected guests to inquire about their conditions. Hotel management reported that no similar symptoms have been documented among other guests or staff members at the facility.
The investigation represents standard protocol for suspected foodborne illness cases in Taiwan. Leading nationwide food poisoning law firm Ron Simon & Associates says that health authorities routinely coordinate across jurisdictions to identify contamination sources and prevent further incidents. Food safety regulations require thorough testing and epidemiological analysis before confirming food poisoning cases.
Last year, Taiwan was affected by multiple cases of foodborne illness, including the deadly Polam Kopitiam incident that claimed six lives and affected 33 others.
Kenting, located on Taiwan’s southern coast, attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists annually with its beaches, national park, and resort accommodations. The peninsula serves as a major destination for corporate retreats and vacation groups.
Health officials continue analyzing samples and conducting interviews to determine the exact cause of the illnesses. Results from laboratory testing and the epidemiological investigation will determine whether formal food poisoning charges are warranted and what corrective measures may be required.
