In Astana, 16 patients sought medical help at a hospital after lunch at the "Koktem" cafe with suspected food poisoning, and 9 of them were hospitalised.
As reported by Cmn.kz citing the press service of the capital's public health department, there are minors among the victims.
It is noted that 6 patients with clinical signs of acute intestinal infection went to the Multipurpose City Children's Hospital No. 3. Ten adult patients with acute gastroenteritis were admitted to the infectious diseases hospital, and 9 of them were hospitalised. Doctors assess the patients' condition as moderate severity.
Meanwhile, the news agency "Kazinform" reports that the number of victims has reached 20 people, including 11 children.
The Deputy Head of the Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control (DSEC) in Astana, Zhanna Pralieva, stated that an investigation has been launched into the establishment. Food products, environmental swabs were taken for laboratory testing, and staff were examined.
At the same time, it is reported that the "Koktem" cafe, where the mass poisoning occurred, continues to operate as normal. The question of its closure will only be raised based on the inspection results.
Meanwhile, the cafe's Managing Director, Daniyar Baytokov, commented on the situation:
"We invited the SES to inspect the entire cafe, products were sent to the laboratory for testing, and employees gave bacterial cultures. A hotline was also set up for guests who experienced health problems. The cafe administration is contacting each victim to clarify what dates they visited the establishment and what they ordered."
Also, the organisation has launched an internal investigation and invited an independent expert examination, the results of which are expected within 3-5 days. The dishes that received complaints have been removed from the menu.