Health experts have warned of a serious outbreak of an illness at a tourist hotspot in Turkey.
Almost 250 cases of gastrointestinal illness were noted by the NHS amongst holidaymakers, according to the latest figures.
And it’s believed that the Salmonella Enteritidis strain is a common source of the infections, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says. Many of the people who had contracted severe infections had been staying in hotels in the popular Antalya region of Turkey.
Wales Online reports that an investigation was launched after 241 cases were found, with many of the people staying in ‘all inclusive’ hotels where food was available in buffet form.
And now, a new update from the UKHSA says that it has still not located the source, so all holidaymakers should be vigilant.
Because the origin hasn’t been identified, holidaymakers need to take extra safety precautions themselves, as the authorities cannot take direct action.
The UKHSA managed to get full detailed travel information for 93 of the cases and said they: “Report staying in a number of different hotels in Turkey and most cases report eating a wide variety of different foods within their hotel resort as part of an all-inclusive holiday package.”
Symptoms of salmonella include fever, abdominal pain (stomach cramps), diarrhoea, nausea, sometimes with vomiting.
Most people recover after a week or so, but some cases involving children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems can be more serious.
A spokesman for the UKHSA said: “As the source of illness has not been identified and investigations are ongoing, UKHSA is reminding people of simple steps they can take to reduce the risk of contracting gastrointestinal infections while travelling abroad including washing hands thoroughly, especially after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food.
“Recently prepared, thoroughly cooked food that is served piping hot, fruit that can be peeled by the traveller (such as bananas and oranges), and pasteurised dairy produce such as yoghurts, milk and cheese are good options for travellers. People feeling unwell with gastrointestinal illness should avoid preparing food or drinks for others until they are free of symptoms.”
UKHSA is working with ABTA, Turkish public health authorities and other international public health partners to inform investigations of these clusters.
UKHSA is also working with the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) to ensure appropriate advice is in place for UK travellers.
Salmonella bacteria live in the gut of many farm animals. During rearing, slaughter and processing, the bacteria can be transferred into food products. Other foods like green vegetables, fruit and shellfish can become contaminated too.
Source : DailyRecord