Health authorities are continuing their investigation into a serious food poisoning incident linked to a wedding reception in Limassol, where dozens of guests fell ill, and at least 21 people required hospital treatment.
Speaking on local media, the Head of the Health Services at the Ministry of Health, Herodotos Herodotou, said authorities were alerted on 2 June following a consumer complaint regarding suspected food poisoning connected to food and desserts consumed at a venue in Limassol.
Officials determined that the wedding reception took place on 31 May. All food, desserts and beverages served at the event were supplied by a catering company operating in the Limassol district.
According to information provided by the newlywed couple to Health Services, around 400 people attended the reception. At least 50 guests reportedly developed symptoms of gastroenteritis, while several required hospitalisation.
More than 20 people hospitalised
“We considered this a very serious incident from the outset,” Herodotou said.
Three investigation teams were deployed in Limassol and one in Paphos to conduct interviews with affected individuals and carry out on-site inspections at premises linked to the case.
Authorities are focusing on the foods consumed, the timing of symptom onset and the nature of the symptoms, which are considered critical factors in identifying the microorganism responsible for the outbreak.
Based on current data, three people were admitted to hospitals in Nicosia, 15 in Limassol and three in Paphos, bringing the total number of hospitalised patients to 21.
Herodotou noted that the figure could increase as authorities continue gathering information from hospitals.
Toxin-producing bacteria suspected
Early assessments by specialists point towards toxin-producing microorganisms, although authorities have not ruled out the possibility that more than one pathogen may be involved.
According to Herodotou, those who developed symptoms shortly after consuming the food may have been affected by toxin-producing bacteria. Others who became ill later may have contracted a different pathogen, such as salmonella.
Several cases involved severe symptoms that required hospital treatment.
Catering facility suspended
Meanwhile, Health Services have suspended the operation of the facility where the food was prepared.
Food samples have been collected and sent to the State General Laboratory for analysis.
Inspections are also underway at the reception venue, with investigators examining drinking water quality, food storage conditions and refrigeration systems.
Second possible case under review
Authorities are also investigating a second possible food poisoning incident that may be linked to the same catering provider and reportedly occurred the previous week.
The information came to the attention of Health Services following publicity surrounding the current case. Officials are now examining whether other individuals may have been affected in the earlier incident.
The first laboratory results from food samples and patient stool tests are expected later today and are anticipated to provide a clearer picture of the cause of the outbreak.
Also read: Second food poisoning case investigated at same venue
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
