Assam: Suspected food poisoning triggers health scare in Boko, over 150 fall ill across three villages

A major health scare has erupted in Boko after more than 150 villagers from three nearby settlements reportedly fell ill under suspicious circumstances, prompting an emergency response from health authorities. Nearly 50 patients, including children, have been hospitalised since Wednesday, with two critically ill patients referred to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), raising concerns of a possible food poisoning or water contamination outbreak.

The affected villages—Jobepara, Rongsepara and Bhogdabari—witnessed a sudden surge in cases of vomiting, diarrhoea and acute illness, triggering panic among residents. At least 30 patients are currently undergoing treatment at the Boko Primary Health Centre (PHC), while several others have been admitted to private hospitals in the area.

Health officials confirmed that Dimple Boro and Tushoram Boro, both in critical condition, were shifted to GMCH for advanced medical care. Doctors at Boko PHC stated that around 30 patients were admitted during the day and assured that adequate medical attention is being provided to those affected.

Preliminary accounts from villagers suggest that the illness may have been triggered by the consumption of food served at a recent wedding reception, though medical professionals have not ruled out contaminated drinking water as a possible cause.

In response to the growing crisis, a medical team from the Kamrup district health department has reached Boko and launched a detailed investigation. Two separate health teams have been deployed to monitor the affected villages, while water samples are scheduled to be collected and tested to identify the source of the outbreak.

Local residents claim the actual number of affected individuals may be significantly higher, estimating that nearly 150 people have fallen ill so far. Meanwhile, health authorities have stated that if bed capacity at Boko PHC becomes insufficient, patients will be shifted to Bamunigaon Model Hospital to ensure uninterrupted treatment.

The incident has caused widespread anxiety among villagers, as officials continue efforts to contain the situation and determine the exact cause behind the sudden outbreak.