Δηλητηριάστηκαν πάνω από 200 άτομα σε τέσσερα χωριά της Καστοριάς | 28/01/2019 | ΕΡΤ

Summary

A local outbreak of gastroenteritis has affected over 230 people in the region of Argos Orestiko, leading to several hospitalizations. The municipality and health authorities immediately took action, conducting water quality checks, sampling, and implementing chlorination measures to ensure public safety. Despite initial concerns about bacterial contamination, tests revealed no microbial issues in the water. Medical experts suspect a viral cause, with symptoms subsiding within 24 hours. As the investigation continues, health officials remain in contact with specialized teams for further analysis.

Takeaways

• 😀 Over 230 cases of gastroenteritis have been reported in the region around Argos Orestiko in the last 72 hours, with four requiring hospitalization.
• 😀 The local hospital and health center were put on alert as soon as the outbreak was detected, and the third Health District was informed.
• 😀 The municipality of Argos Orestiko immediately began necessary checks and actions, including water source and network inspections.
• 😀 The water supply was thoroughly checked from sources to networks, including reservoirs and pumping stations, with no contamination found.
• 😀 Chlorine levels in the water were within acceptable limits, ruling out waterborne microbiological infection as the cause of the gastroenteritis.
• 😀 Despite the absence of bacterial contamination in the water, preventive actions like hyper-chlorination were carried out to ensure safety.
• 😀 The municipality coordinated with health authorities, including the regional health department and the KEPY (Public Health Organization) for further investigation.
• 😀 Initial tests of water samples confirmed no microbial contamination, but the cause of the outbreak remains under investigation, with a viral origin suspected.
• 😀 Medical authorities are examining the outbreak closely, and ongoing investigations include stool sample analyses at the local hospital.
• 😀 While symptoms like low fever, vomiting, and diarrhea were common, most cases have shown improvement within 24 hours, with symptoms subsiding in most patients.

Q & A

What is the main health issue being addressed in this transcript?

The main health issue being addressed is a gastroenteritis outbreak in the Argos Orestiko area, affecting multiple villages, with over 230 reported cases within 72 hours.

What were the symptoms of the gastroenteritis affecting people in the area?

The symptoms included low fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Most people sought medical attention either at the local health center or at the Kastaoria hospital.

What measures were taken by the local authorities to address the outbreak?

The local authorities conducted thorough checks on the water supply system, including examining sources, networks, reservoirs, and pumps. Additionally, chlorination was increased as a precautionary measure, and samples were sent to certified laboratories for testing.

What did the preliminary test results suggest about the water quality?

Preliminary results indicated that the water quality was satisfactory, with no signs of microbial contamination. The levels of residual chlorine were within acceptable limits, ruling out waterborne bacterial causes.

What was the role of the mayor in the situation?

The mayor, Mr. Kepaftsoglou, coordinated the response efforts, ensuring that the municipality followed the required protocol. He also facilitated the water quality checks and the collection of relevant samples for testing.

Was there any suspicion of contamination in the water supply?

While there was initial concern about potential contamination from microorganisms, further investigations revealed that the water supply did not show any signs of bacterial contamination, such as a drop in chlorine levels.

What other health institutions were involved in the response?

In addition to the municipal response, the Kastaoria hospital, the Argos Orestiko health center, and the public health services (such as the third health region) were all involved in managing the outbreak, providing care, and conducting further tests.

What potential cause of the outbreak is still being investigated?

The exact cause of the gastroenteritis is still under investigation. The most likely cause appears to be a viral infection, although further laboratory tests and expert assessments are ongoing.

What actions were taken to ensure the population received medical assistance?

The municipality urged pharmacies to stay open to ensure access to medication. Health services were mobilized, and tests were conducted on water samples to rule out any waterborne bacterial infections.

How did the local population react to the outbreak?

The local population was understandably concerned due to the sudden nature of the outbreak and the symptoms. However, health officials reported that the symptoms began to subside within 24 hours, providing some relief to those affected.