Outbreak of Cryptosporidiosis at a Norwegian Hotel
Author Information
Author(s): Hajdu Agnes, Vold Line, Østmo Torild A, Helleve Anna, Helgebostad Sigrid R, Krogh Truls, Robertson Lucy, Jong Birgitta, Nygård Karin
Primary Institution: Norwegian Institute of Public Health
Hypothesis
Is there a link between in-house water systems and the outbreak of cryptosporidiosis among Swedish guests at a Norwegian hotel?
Conclusion
The outbreak likely went undetected without the alert from Swedish health authorities, highlighting the need for better awareness and diagnostics for cryptosporidiosis in Norway.
Supporting Evidence
- 25 diarrhoeal cases were identified among 89 respondents.
- 10 cases were laboratory-confirmed.
- Consumption of ice cubes was a strong risk factor for illness.
- Environmental samples were negative for Cryptosporidium.
- Awareness of cryptosporidiosis should be raised among medical personnel in Norway.
Takeaway
Some people got sick after staying at a hotel in Norway, and it might be because of the water they drank there.
Methodology
A questionnaire was sent to groups who stayed at the hotel, and cases were defined based on symptoms and lab confirmation.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to low health-seeking behavior among Norwegian guests.
Limitations
The specific vehicle of transmission was not definitively identified, and the investigation relied on self-reported data.
Participant Demographics
The majority of cases were male, predominantly aged 30-39 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 0.9–9.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website