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Chile! James, you know that fear of someone’s food gives you a bubble? Well, it looks like at least 19 people ended up in the hospital with suspected food poisoning after eating at a work potluck last week. The incident took place, according to local reports, at a Walmart distribution center in Tennessee.
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A potluck is rocked by a foodborne illness outbreak
While 19 people were in the hospital with the food-related illness, up to 30 people were triaged, said a statement from DAOINE. Additionally, emergency responders said at least 80 people were affected. WTVF first reported that the illness broke out at a party after a potluck meal at a Walmart distribution center in Tennessee.
Employees called 911
Released 911 calls revealed that one person at a Walmart distribution center called about an employee vomiting and feeling faint in the bathroom. Also, a second call notified officials that the illness was spreading to other workers. “…right now sitting at 28 affected associates, and we have at least four who are seriously ill,” the caller said, according to WTVF. A second ambulance was reportedly sent to the scene.
In addition, a caller to 911 reported that the illness may be “from domestic rice brought into the facility.” However, health officials are still investigating the case and have not confirmed that the source was the rice. The Tennessee Department of Health confirmed the study, but did not provide specific updates about the cause or the food.
Walmart responds to the incident
The retailer reportedly issued a statement addressing the incident at its distribution center in Tennessee. Also, he clarified that the illness did not come from his products and that the public is not in danger. They are cooperating with the investigation, WTVF reported.
“The health and safety of our participants is a top priority. We are working with local emergency management and health officials as they investigate.”
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