Abstract
Objective: The aim of our study was to present the epidemiologic features and the measures taken during a norovirus outbreak considered to be originating from contaminated water.
Methods: Medical records of patients referred to the state hospital and health centers with gastroenteritis complaints in April 2010 were evaluated retrospectively. In addition, the data about the possible origin of the outbreak were also evaluated. Fifty patients were randomly selected, and a questionnaire containing epidemiological and clinical questions was applied.
Results: During 13 days (between 6 and 17 April 2010), 1482 patients with acute gastroenteritis symptoms and findings presented to the healthcare facilities. Stool samples were obtained from nine patients and water samples were taken from four parts of the waterworks. Norovirus was detected in six of the stool samples. However, no norovirus was detected in the water samples. All patients were followed up at the outpatient clinics. None of the patients developed complications.
Conclusion: Waterborne norovirus outbreaks can affect hundreds of people simultaneously. Early identification of the outbreak source and agent are important in the control of the outbreak, and for the treatment and follow up of the people affected. If leukocytes and erythrocytes are absent in the stool microscopy in gastroenteritis, norovirus should be considered in the first place as the cause, and appropriate investigation should be carried out. J Microbiol Infect Dis 2014;4(1): 26-29