Norovirus Gastroenteritis Outbreak in Greece
Author Information
Author(s): Vantarakis Apostolos, Mellou Kassiani, Spala Georgia, Kokkinos Petros, Alamanos Yiannis
Primary Institution: University of Patras
Hypothesis
What caused the gastroenteritis outbreak in North Eastern Greece?
Conclusion
The outbreak was likely caused by contaminated drinking water, although this was not confirmed by water analyses.
Supporting Evidence
- 1,640 cases of gastroenteritis were reported during the outbreak.
- The overall attack rate was 16.3 cases per 1,000 inhabitants.
- 57% of cases were in individuals under the age of 15.
- Norovirus GII strains were identified in 99 out of 174 stool specimens.
Takeaway
A lot of people in a town in Greece got sick from a virus called Norovirus, probably because the drinking water was dirty.
Methodology
The study involved a descriptive epidemiological investigation, virological characterization, and phylogenetic analysis of Norovirus strains.
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting of cases due to the absence of a surveillance system.
Limitations
The lack of a surveillance system for gastroenteritis in Greece made it difficult to confirm all cases.
Participant Demographics
The outbreak affected 1,640 individuals, with 45.2% male and 54.8% female, aged 3 months to 89 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.005
Statistical Significance
p<0.005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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