Limassol, Cyprus. Salmonella has emerged as the leading suspected cause of a mass food poisoning outbreak linked to a wedding reception in Limassol, where more than 70 people reported symptoms and 21 required hospital treatment. Preliminary analyses indicated salmonella in a chicken à la crème dish served at the event, while confirmatory testing remains pending.
Preliminary laboratory findings
Speaking on Friday, Health Ministry sanitary services director Herodotos Herodotou said initial analyses had identified indications of salmonella in the chicken with cream dish served at the reception.
“We have some initial indication, but it will have to be confirmed in the coming days,” Herodotou said.
“This indication shows that there was salmonella in chicken with cream. But it needs to be confirmed.”
Ongoing investigation
Authorities expect final laboratory findings over the weekend as specialists continue examining food samples, water samples and biological material collected from affected guests.
Three specialist teams were assigned to investigate the incident.
Cases and hospital admissions
The outbreak came to light after the newly married couple filed a complaint with health authorities, reporting that dozens of guests had fallen ill following the reception.
Subsequent investigations identified 74 people who developed symptoms consistent with gastroenteritis.
According to health services data, 39 cases were recorded in Limassol, including 15 people who required hospitalisation.
A further 35 cases were reported in Paphos, with three hospital admissions, while another three people were admitted to hospitals in Nicosia.
