Moldova and Malta have recently recorded separate food poisoning outbreaks.
Moldova’s National Agency for Public Health (ANSP) reported an outbreak of food poisoning among people attending an event held at a hotel in Chisinau.
Epidemiological investigation results showed that the onset of symptoms was related to participation in several events from June 22nd to 26th. Local media reported that the location involved was the Radisson Blu Léo Grand Hotel.
A total of 9 events of interest were organized at the hotel and attended by 519 people. So far, 26 people have fallen ill. Most of them are hospitalized and receiving specialized treatment.
Some officials, including officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attended the event and requested medical assistance due to symptoms of food poisoning.
Salmonella Enteritidis was identified in seven patients following laboratory investigations. Other samples are still under investigation. Samples were taken from food and from staff involved in food preparation and handling.
malta incident
In Malta, public health authorities are investigating a confirmed outbreak among employees who ate lunch at work in late June.
A total of 19 people were assessed in the Accident and Emergency Department and two required hospital admission. All affected people are said to be in stable condition.
Health authorities have begun an epidemiological investigation to determine the cause of the outbreak and the extent of its spread. The causative pathogen has not been disclosed.
The Food Safety and Security Authority (FSSA) focuses on provisions that include the collection and analysis of relevant food and environmental samples to determine the source of contamination.
As a precautionary measure, authorities issued an emergency control order and kitchen facilities were closed until further investigation and corrective actions were implemented.
The public was reminded of the importance of good food hygiene practices, especially in hot weather. Particular attention should be paid to maintaining appropriate refrigeration temperatures, avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods, and cooking foods thoroughly.
FSSA also said it had been alerted to a van that had arrived in Malta by ferry from Sicily carrying a variety of food items. According to the National Tax Service, the van traveled from Albania, traveled through Sicily, and arrived in Malta.
An inspection of the vehicle revealed food items including meat, yogurt, snacks, cheese, olive oil, soft drinks, beans, eggs, alcohol, salt and juice. The product was shipped at an inappropriate temperature or lacked required labeling. Additionally, traceability documentation is missing. The product is sealed and disposed of.
Traders have a legal obligation to register with the FSSA and notify at least 48 hours before any animals, food, feed or plants enter Malta. This requirement applies even if the goods are produced within the European Union.
