Norovirus Outbreaks in Europe: Hungary and Scotland Report Cases

Norovirus has been linked to an outbreak in Hungary that has sickened almost 600 people. The National Center for Public Health and Pharmacy, the National Food Chain Safety Office, and local officials investigated this incident in Budapest.

Authorities became aware of a rise in infections in early November, likely related to food served in several educational institutions by the same catering company. Among those affected were 541 children and 53 staff members.

The investigation included an examination of raw materials, kitchen processes, and hygiene conditions. Findings led to enforcement actions against the kitchen operator. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the same Norovirus strain, GII.4 Sydney, in both kitchen workers and patients, indicating foodborne transmission.

Symptoms among the sick included diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, and headaches, with 47 children requiring hospital care. All patients have since recovered. Results from food samples indicated Staphylococcus and Bacillus cereus, but these did not account for all illnesses.

Authorities suspect that deficiencies in kitchen and personal hygiene contributed to the outbreak. The kitchen's operations were suspended, and a major cleaning and disinfection effort was ordered, including hygiene training for employees.

The kitchen can only reopen after receiving negative lab results from employees. Additionally, the National Authority for Trade and Consumer Protection conducted a national inspection of gyros outlets, inspecting 350 catering units and imposing fines exceeding 17 million forints, or 52 thousand dollars, due to serious hygiene issues.

The inspection aimed to enhance consumer safety and reduce food safety risks. In Scotland, health authorities are also investigating similar Norovirus outbreaks affecting various institutions. These incidents underline ongoing public health challenges in Europe, with hundreds affected and investigations ongoing.