Waterborne Giardiasis Outbreak in Bergen, Norway
Author Information
Author(s): Nygård Karin, Schimmer Barbara, Søbstad Øystein, Walde Anna, Tveit Ingvar, Langeland Nina, Hausken Trygve, Aavitsland Preben
Primary Institution: Norwegian Institute of Public Health
Hypothesis
What was the source and extent of the giardiasis outbreak in Bergen?
Conclusion
Late detection contributed to the large public health impact of this outbreak.
Supporting Evidence
- A total of 1300 laboratory-confirmed cases were reported.
- The risk of infection was significantly higher for those receiving water from the central supply.
- The outbreak peaked in early October 2004.
Takeaway
A lot of people got sick from drinking contaminated water in Bergen, Norway, and it took a long time to figure out what was wrong.
Methodology
Cases were identified through laboratory diagnostics, and a case-control study was conducted among residents in the central area of Bergen.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting and diagnosing cases due to the non-endemic nature of giardiasis in Norway.
Limitations
The outbreak was not detected in a timely manner due to reliance on passive surveillance.
Participant Demographics
Predominantly women aged 20-29 years, with few children or elderly affected.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 15 – 22
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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