{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Gastroenteritis Outbreaks after Contamination of Water Supply Systems: Public Health Response Gaps and Challenges, Greece, 2004-2023.
{Author}: Sideroglou T;Chrysostomou A;Politi L;Georgalis L;Mellou K;
{Journal}: Int J Environ Res Public Health
{Volume}: 21
{Issue}: 6
{Year}: 2024 May 30
{Factor}: 4.614
{DOI}: 10.3390/ijerph21060701
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>waterborne disease outbreaks (WGDOs) following the contamination of drinking water remain a public health concern.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>The current study aims to assess the occurrence and identify gaps in the notification and investigation of WGDOs in Greece. Data for 2004-2023 were retrieved and summarized.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Thirty-five outbreaks with 6128 recorded cases were identified. The median time from the date of onset in the first cases to reporting was 7 days (range: 1-26 days). Authorities were informed by health care services in thirty (85.7%) outbreaks and by the media in five (14.3%). The investigation methods used varied. An analytical study was conducted in nine (25.7%) outbreaks and the testing of clinical samples in twenty-seven (77.1%). In three (11.1%) outbreaks, clinical samples were simultaneously tested for multiple bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Water samples were collected in nineteen (54.3%) outbreaks (in three after chlorination) with a mean time lag of 5 days (range: 1-20 days) from the first cases. A pathogen in clinical samples was identified in 20 (57.1%) outbreaks and, in 1 (6.25%), the same microorganism was isolated in both clinical and water samples.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>delays in reporting and the heterogeneity of investigations depict that the surveillance of WGDOs and response practices should be strengthened, and operational procedures should be standardised.