At least 100 people fell ill in Greece recently with contaminated water suspected as the source. The Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) said an increased incidence of gastroenteritis cases was observed in late May in residents of the areas of Rizomylos and Stefanovikiou, Magnesia. A total of 100 cases, of all ages and both sexes, with symptom onset dates between May 24 and June 2, were reported.
Nine children were hospitalized, as well as an elderly person with underlying conditions. Samples from the water supply network were taken and laboratory analysis revealed Salmonella, in addition to microbial indicators of fecal contamination. Six stool samples from hospitalized children were positive for Salmonella, as was another sample taken from a different patient.
Officials issued a notice to the public advising them not to drink water from the supply network or to use it to wash food and in food preparation. If it has to be used, it should be boiled at 100 degrees C (212 degrees F) for at least three minutes. Sanitation of the water supply network was started and daily checks were conducted until the water quality was restored.
Previous incidents It is not the first waterborne outbreak in Greece. According to EODY surveillance data, 35 outbreaks with 6,128 cases and 218 hospitalizations were identified between 2004 and 2023. Seven outbreaks with more than 200 cases were recorded and the largest affected 1,640 people.
In August 2022, the Hellenic National Public.
