Online Rumors of Potato Food Poisoning in Kaohsiung Dispelled; City Health Department Reports False Information to Police

Central News Agency (CNA) — Kaohsiung, April 27 — The Kaohsiung City Department of Health today clarified that recent social media posts claiming suspected potato food poisoning cases in Kaohsiung City on April 18 are false information. The entire case has been referred to the police for legal action.

Recently, some citizens posted graphics on Facebook claiming suspected potato food poisoning cases in Kaohsiung City on April 18, with some individuals seeking medical attention due to severe symptoms. The Department of Health stated today that, upon investigation, no suspected potato food poisoning cases have been reported by any medical institutions or through the 1999 hotline from April 18 to the present.

The Department of Health stated that this social media post is false information. According to the "Food Safety and Sanitation Management Act," those who spread rumors or false information about food safety, causing harm to the public or others, shall be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than three years, detention, or a fine of not more than NT$1 million. The Department of Health has referred the entire case to the police for legal action.

The Department of Health reminded the public that upon receiving unverified food safety alerts, they should first verify the information on the official websites or social media accounts of relevant health authorities, and avoid spreading it carelessly to prevent legal repercussions. Citizens with any food safety and sanitation issues can contact the Food Sanitation Section of the Department of Health (07-7134000 ext. Food Sanitation Section) to report. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150427

Choose to stand with facts. Every sponsorship you provide is a force to protect press freedom.

Download the CNA 'First-hand News' APP to stay updated with the latest news.

Text, images, and audio/video content on this website may not be reproduced, publicly broadcasted, or publicly transmitted and utilized without authorization.