Outbreak of Gastrointestinal Infection Reported in Gegharkunik

On August 18, ten citizens, including five children, from the Vaghashen community in the Gegharkunik region were hospitalized in the infectious diseases department of Martuni Hospital with symptoms characteristic of gastrointestinal infections. They presented with diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.

Following immediate epidemiological investigations organized by specialists from the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention, it was revealed that all the patients had participated in a home celebration on August 17, where they consumed chicken breast salad dressed with sour cream and mayonnaise, grilled pork and chicken, and homemade cream pastries.

The biological samples of the hospitalized patients and food leftovers have been sent to Yerevan for laboratory analysis. Salmonella, adenovirus, and norovirus DNA have been detected in the patients. Their condition is currently stable, and they are showing positive progress. Work continues, and further information regarding laboratory results will be provided.

To avoid gastrointestinal infectious diseases and food poisoning, the Ministry of Health reiterates and urges the public to:

• Thoroughly wash food (fruits, vegetables, and berries) with clean running water before consumption,
• Avoid consuming homemade and perishable foods, sauces and salads made from raw ingredients,
• Store food at appropriate temperatures in the refrigerator,
• Choose fresh, non-expired food,
• Do not purchase food prepared and sold outdoors in areas exposed to external environmental factors, such as sunlight, rain, dust, and vehicle emissions,
• Generally avoid cream-based pastries, do not buy soft ice cream prepared on-site, refreshing drinks, kvass, or freshly squeezed juices from fruits,
• Store food at proper temperatures and in sealed containers to prevent contamination by flies,
• Separate raw ingredients from cooked ones and use different cooking utensils for raw and prepared foods such as knives, plates, and boards,
• Ensure that liquids from meat and other raw foods do not contaminate prepared dishes (salads, fruits, vegetables, etc.),
• Cook or fry food thoroughly at least at 70°C,
• Do not purchase mushrooms from random places and be cautious when washing bought mushrooms, discarding any with altered appearance,
• Maintain hand hygiene by washing hands frequently, especially before cooking and eating, and after using the toilet,
• In case of symptoms characteristic of gastrointestinal infections, DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE, and seek medical assistance immediately.