In 2022, Ireland witnessed a surge in infections attributed to E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Listeria, as detailed in the latest data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC). Amid the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, specific gastrointestinal infections exhibited a decline in reported cases, while others, notably campylobacteriosis, cryptosporidiosis, E. coli, and yersiniosis, either escalated or maintained stability. Most notably, these diseases reverted to pre-pandemic levels in the year 2022. The cyber-attack on the Health Service Executive (HSE) in 2021 significantly impacted data integrity, validation processes, and the reporting of enhanced data variables, further affecting outbreak notifications.
Campylobacter cases surged to 3,617 in 2022, marking a 13 percent upswing from the preceding year. The incidence rates surpassed the European Union (EU) average, with a predominant concentration among males below 5 years old. Salmonella infections, totaling 342 in 2022, recorded an almost twofold increase in incidence rates from the previous year, with the highest prevalence observed in those aged less than one to 4 years. The reporting of seventeen outbreaks, including a national incident linked to the Ferrero Kinder chocolate multi-country outbreak, underscored the public health challenge.
E. coli infections numbered 980 cases in 2022, reflecting a 3 percent rise from the prior year. The notification rate in Ireland continued to outpace the EU average, with identified risk factors encompassing private well water, animal/environmental exposures, and attendance at childcare facilities. Tragically, four fatalities were reported, with the highest incidence rate observed among those less than one to 4 years old. Listeriosis cases, totaling 18 in 2022, predominantly affected individuals older than 65.
Furthermore, Ireland grappled with cases of Clostridium perfringens, Bacillus cereus, botulism, and Yersinia infections throughout 2022. Noteworthy was the decline in Hepatitis A cases from 82 in 2021 to 66 in 2022, indicative of evolving public health dynamics. This comprehensive overview underscores the critical need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to address emerging health challenges within the Irish population.
Source: Food Safety News
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