Irish people hospitalised after Bordeaux botulism outbreak during Rugby World Cup

French newspaper 'Sud Ouest' reported that the owner of Tchin Tchin Wine Bar in Bordeaux, above, said he threw away some sardines due to a strong smell, but that he served others which seemed in good condition. Picture: Facebook

The HSE has confirmed “a small number” of Irish people are being treated in French hospitals for botulism after an outbreak linked to a wine bar in Bordeaux claimed the life of one woman.

Following a meeting of public health officials on Wednesday night, the HSE confirmed further cases in the French city, where thousands of rugby fans travelled to see Ireland play Romania in their Rugby World Cup pool game on Saturday.