Jakarta, ThedailyID — A total of 172 medical residents from Airlangga University’s Faculty of Medicine reported nausea, vomiting and dizziness during a pre-education program on Monday, September 28, 2026.
RSUD Dr Soetomo Surabaya is now working with several authorized institutions to investigate food samples and determine the cause of the incident.
The hospital said the investigation is part of efforts to establish the facts behind the health complaints. The examination covers both leftover food from the event and specimens taken directly from affected patients.
RSUD Dr Soetomo General Affairs Head Robeth Jabbar said the hospital had taken several steps to assess the condition of the affected students.
“To confirm their condition and determine the cause of the health complaints, RSUD Dr Soetomo has conducted several examinations and coordinated with relevant institutions,” Robeth said in a written statement on Tuesday, September 29.
The hospital collected food samples and rectal swabs from patients. The samples were sent to the East Java Police Forensic Laboratory, the Public Health Laboratory and the Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) for testing.
The hospital is currently waiting for the laboratory results. The findings will help determine the next steps in handling the affected students.
RSUD Dr Soetomo has also reported the suspected food poisoning incident to the relevant local health office.
“Laboratory examination results will be an important part of determining the next steps in treatment,” Robeth said.
The hospital is also coordinating with Airlangga University’s Faculty of Medicine to monitor the students’ conditions. The coordination includes evaluating food preparation and safety during the pre-education program.
The hospital said the university’s faculty would also be involved in discussions about the food provided during the event.
Airlangga University has not yet issued a statement about the incident. The university is scheduled to provide information at a press conference at RSUD Dr Soetomo on Tuesday afternoon.
The laboratory tests are expected to help authorities determine whether the food served during the program was linked to the health complaints. As of the report, the exact cause had not yet been established.
