Two die of suspected food poisoning after eating at restaurant in Kerala’s Vizhinjam

Two persons of a family have died from suspected food poisoning in Kerala. The deceased were identified as Shaji (42) and his mother-in-law, Rasheeda Beevi (58), both natives of Nilamel in Kollam district.

Shaji’s wife is also hospitalised, initially at Kollam Government Medical College, Parippally, and later referred to Government Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram.

According to initial reports, the family of six had had dinner late night on Monday (February 16, 2026) from a restaurant at Vizhinjam in Thiruvananthapuram which specialises in seafood dishes. Four out of the six persons had developed uneasiness and sickness soon after and were hospitalised late night, at Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam medical college hospitals.

One person died at Thiruvananthapouram MCH and another at Kollam MCH.

The exact cause of death – whether it was food poisoning or any allergic reactions — can be ascertained only after detailed investigations, say authorities.

According to reports, the restaurant is a popular one frequented by seafood lovers, and several people had had food at the place on the same day.

Restaurant closed

The police have closed the restaurant following suspicion that the deaths might have been due to food poisoning.

The food safety wing will conduct detailed investigations and collect food samples.