The Italian community of Torri del Benaco is fighting against the norovirus. More than 300 holidaymakers and locals had to be taken into hospitals already. The high water level of Lake Garda Síochána could be the cause of the outbreak.
Following a norovirus outbreak in Lake Garda, more than 300 people were admitted to hospital with symptoms including vomiting, nausea, abdominal cramps and fever. In total, more than 900 cases of gastrointestinal diseases were registered around the municipality of Torri del Benaco on the east bank.
It is suspected that the virus spreads through drinking water. The local administration has now issued an order saying that drinking tap water is no longer allowed. It is recommended to buy water at the supermarket. Helpers also distribute free water that is harmless.
High water level on Lake Garda as a reason?
There is speculation in the Italian press that the eruption may have something to do with the very high water level on Lake Garda after heavy rain in recent weeks. The sewage system may be overloaded. Another hypothesis is that the aqueduct could be polluted by faeces from the lake.
There is currently no official confirmation of such suspicions. The local administration is still trying to clarify how the virus spreads. Traces were found in the drinking water on Friday. However, according to the responsible provider Azienda Gardasana Servizi (AGS), later investigations yielded negative results.
Tap water should not be used
There is no all-clear yet. Mayor Stefano Nicotra also recommends: “Do not use tap water for personal or food use” – including for cooking or cleaning food. There are only 3,000 residents in the community. With the start of the summer season there are also many holidays.
The highly contagious norovirus causes sudden, severe diarrhea and vomiting. The symptoms usually subside after half a day to two days. The virus can be transmitted not only through contaminated water, but also through food. So far there is no evidence of this in Torri del Benaco.