Four deaths possibly linked to E. coli outbreak in Belgian nursing homes
Belgian health authorities are investigating a serious outbreak of STEC (Shiga toxin-producing E. coli) that has affected residents in several nursing homes. At least four people have died, though it remains uncertain whether STEC was the direct cause or whether the infection worsened existing health conditions.
In total, 21 confirmed infections have been reported across six care centres in Flemish Brabant, Antwerp and the Aalst region. One member of staff has also tested positive. The majority of cases were recorded between 18 and 25 August.
Laboratory analysis shows that all patients were infected with the same bacterial strain, suggesting a common source of contamination.
"We are currently investigating the entire food consumption of the various residential care centres where infections have occurred"
The Department of Care, the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), Sciensano and Belgium’s national reference centre are conducting a joint investigation. Contaminated food is considered the most likely source, according to FASFC spokesperson Liesbeth Van de Voorde.
"We are currently investigating the entire food consumption of the various residential care centres where infections have occurred," Van de Voorde said on Wednesday evening. "It is still too early in the investigation to identify a probable source of the infections."
Camembert recalled
Also on Wednesday, French dairy company Gillot recalled batches of Camembert due to possible STEC contamination. Although the bacterium involved is the same as in the Belgian outbreak, the FASFC stressed that “at this moment there are no indications of a link” between the cases.
STEC infections can range from mild diarrhoea to bloody diarrhoea, fever and headaches. In severe cases, the infection may lead to haemolytic uraemic syndrome, which can cause kidney failure. Several residents are reported to be seriously ill and have been hospitalised.
Residents showing symptoms have been isolated and enhanced hygiene measures have been introduced in the affected facilities. Authorities warn that more cases could emerge in the coming days as testing continues.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO KURT DESPLENTER
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