In Sweden, health authorities are actively investigating a recent surge in Cryptosporidium infections, with the Public Health Agency diligently working to pinpoint the origin of the outbreak caused by the Cryptosporidium parasite, resulting in cases of cryptosporidiosis. Since mid-December 2023, a total of 68 individuals spanning 14 regions have been affected, with the majority of reported cases concentrated in Halland and Jönköping. Of significance is the observation that 72 percent of the cases pertain to women, averaging 41 years of age, and 79 percent falling within the age range of 21 to 60 years old.
A comprehensive analysis of select samples has revealed a noteworthy finding: 13 out of 18 cases share a common Cryptosporidium type, suggesting a unified source of infection. Collaboratively, the Swedish Food Agency (Livsmedelsverket) and local infection control units are actively engaged in uncovering the suspected source, with particular emphasis on fresh food items. Utilizing interviews and questionnaires, health authorities are meticulously gathering information regarding the dietary habits of those affected, drawing comparisons with a healthy control group to discern specific foods associated with the outbreak.
Importantly, it is crucial to highlight that an earlier occurrence of cryptosporidiosis in October 2023, linked to goat milk cheese, is not deemed to be connected to the current cluster of cases. Looking back at 2022, Sweden reported a total of 716 cryptosporidiosis cases, with the infection peak typically observed in late summer and autumn. Past investigations have previously linked cryptosporidium epidemics to contaminated lettuce in ready-to-eat green leaf mixes, underscoring the necessity for thorough examination and preventative measures. The symptoms associated with cryptosporidiosis encompass watery diarrhea, low-grade fever, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, with a duration of up to two weeks.
Source: Food Safety News
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