Limassol, Cyprus. A total of 74 people reported symptoms of suspected food poisoning after a wedding reception in Limassol, with 21 requiring hospitalisation. Health authorities said laboratory testing is underway to determine the source of the outbreak.
Investigation launched
The state health services organisation, Okypy, confirmed on Thursday that people who attended the reception developed symptoms consistent with gastroenteritis after the event.
Okypy chief Herodotos Herodotou said an investigation was launched after the newly married couple filed a complaint, initially reporting that around 50 guests had fallen ill.
Cases recorded across districts
According to figures collected through interviews with those affected, 39 cases were identified in Limassol, including 15 people who required hospitalisation.
A further 35 people developed symptoms in Paphos, with three admitted to hospital, while another three were hospitalised in Nicosia.
Specialised teams assigned
Three specialised teams were assigned to the case.
One team interviewed guests who became ill, a second inspected facilities linked to the reception and catering operation, and a third collected food and water samples for laboratory analysis.
Premises suspended pending results
Because a significant number of guests travelled from Paphos to attend the reception, investigators expanded their enquiries to that district and continued interviews with those affected.
Authorities also suspended the operation of the reception premises until the cause of the outbreak is established.
Health services are awaiting laboratory results to determine whether microorganisms identified in patients correspond with any contaminants found in the food or water served during the event.
