In Moscow, over 120 people sought medical help due to a suspected outbreak of severe food poisoning, with at least 30 in intensive care. Health officials suspect it’s food-borne botulism, a dangerous illness affecting the nervous system.
The outbreak is linked to salads delivered by a popular online service, which has temporarily stopped operations amid a criminal investigation. Deputy Mayor Anastasia Rakova reported that 55 people are in serious condition, with 30 in intensive care.
Authorities are conducting an investigation, and the Moscow prosecutor’s office has launched a criminal inquiry into consumer safety breaches. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Rakova assured that timely medical care has prevented any fatalities.
Botulism, rare and caused by improperly processed food, requires swift treatment with antitoxins to prevent fatalities. The condition is not contagious between people and is often associated with canned or preserved foods.
The delivery company involved, Kuchnia Na Rayone (“local kitchen”), acknowledged a potential risk related to a salad ingredient and has halted orders. In 2021, there were 82 confirmed botulism cases across the European Economic Area, as per the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.