A salmonella outbreak in Latvia has infected at least 120 people.
The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) initially received information about 40 cases of acute intestinal infection in two kindergartens in Riga.
An epidemiological investigation was launched to find the cause, and laboratory tests on stool samples were also organized.
The number of registered cases has now reached 120. Efforts are continuing to send stool samples from sick people and their contacts for laboratory analysis.
Riga authorities have asked for an explanation from the catering provider to help determine the possible cause of the illness. Safety measures include increased disinfection of both buildings.
Patients include children and adult staff. Recommendations and information were sent to the relevant authorities, the children’s parents and the Latvian Food and Veterinary Directorate (PVD).
According to PVD, both sites are catered by SIA Fristar.
Symptoms are mostly moderate, including fever and diarrhea, but local media reported that some children required hospital treatment.
Initial results from laboratory tests show that Salmonella has been identified as the causative agent in most cases. However, other pathogens have also been discovered, including norovirus, rotavirus, and yersiniosis.
Laboratory testing conducted by the Institute for Food Safety, Animal Health and the Environment (BIOR) has not yet detected salmonella in food and environmental samples collected from educational institutions.
Samples of eggs, pork, poultry and seafood, as well as swabs from various surfaces, were sent for laboratory testing. The samples tested so far meet safety standards. Results for fish products are still pending.
During 2024, 211 cases of salmonellosis were reported in Latvia, compared to 101 cases in 2023.
About salmonella
Food contaminated with salmonella typically does not look, smell or taste spoiled. Anyone can get sick from a salmonella infection. Infants, young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious illness because their immune systems are weaker.
Anyone who develops symptoms of salmonella infection should seek treatment. Because special tests are needed to diagnose salmonellosis, sick people should tell their doctors about possible exposure to salmonella. Salmonella infection symptoms can be similar to other illnesses and often lead to misdiagnosis.
Symptoms of salmonella infection may include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise healthy adults usually become sick for 4 to 7 days. However, in some cases, diarrhea may be so severe that hospitalization may be necessary.
People with weakened immune systems, such as older people, children, pregnant women, and people with cancer, are more likely to develop serious and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Some people become infected with salmonella without feeling sick or showing any symptoms. However, they can still spread the infection to other people.
