ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST — A tragic outbreak of food poisoning has left eight children and one adult dead in central Ivory Coast, prompting a national health emergency and renewed concerns over food safety in the country. The incident occurred on Friday in the town of Ande, located in the Adzope region, according to an official statement released by the Ministry of Health on Monday.
Health authorities confirmed that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the outbreak, which followed the consumption of bouillie, a traditional porridge commonly eaten by both children and adults. Officials described the situation as a “collective foodborne illness,” affecting dozens of residents within a short period.
The outbreak has shocked the local community and highlighted the ongoing risks associated with food poisoning, particularly in areas where food preparation and storage conditions may be inadequate.
Food Poisoning Outbreak Triggers Health Emergency in Ande
According to the health ministry, the food poisoning emergency unfolded “during the day” on Friday, when residents of Ande began showing severe symptoms shortly after consuming the porridge. Medical teams were quickly dispatched as cases escalated rapidly, overwhelming local health facilities.
In total, 97 people were recorded as suffering from severe food poisoning symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and loss of consciousness. Among these cases, nine proved fatal — eight children and one adult — underscoring the devastating impact of foodborne illnesses on vulnerable populations, especially young children.
One child under the age of six was transferred to a major hospital in Abidjan for specialized care. Meanwhile, three patients remain in intensive care, while four others are reported to be in stable condition at the Adzope Regional Hospital. Health officials say the coming days will be critical for those still receiving treatment.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the contamination was bacterial, chemical, or linked to improper food handling. However, laboratory tests and field investigations are ongoing to identify the source of the food poisoning and prevent further cases.
This latest tragedy is not an isolated incident. Ivory Coast has experienced several deadly cases of food poisoning in recent years, raising serious concerns about food safety standards and public health monitoring.
In late 2023, approximately 10 children died in the city of Bouake following a suspected food poisoning incident. That case similarly involved a widely consumed food product and affected multiple households. Despite public outrage at the time, recurring outbreaks suggest that preventive measures remain insufficient.
Earlier, in February 2023, a bacterial contamination in a nearby village led to widespread illness and death. According to official reports, 16 people lost their lives, though local residents claimed the true number was closer to 21. The case resulted in two individuals being sentenced to five years in prison for their role in the contamination, marking one of the rare instances of legal accountability in a food poisoning case.
Public health experts warn that without stronger food safety enforcement, community education, and routine inspections, such tragedies are likely to continue.
In response to the Ande outbreak, health officials are urging citizens to exercise caution when preparing and consuming food, particularly for children. Proper cooking, clean water usage, and safe storage are critical in preventing food poisoning, especially in warm climates where bacteria can multiply rapidly.
The Ministry of Health has pledged to strengthen surveillance systems and improve rapid response mechanisms for foodborne illness outbreaks. Community awareness campaigns are also expected to be launched to educate residents about the dangers of contaminated food and the early signs of food poisoning.
As families mourn the loss of loved ones, the tragedy in Ande serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of unsafe food practices. For many, the hope is that this incident will lead to meaningful reforms and prevent future loss of life caused by food poisoning in Ivory Coast.