Gastroenteritis: 1,194 Cases from December 29 to January 4

The number of gastroenteritis cases has risen in recent weeks. From 1,001 cases recorded in the last week of December, the figures increased to 1,194 for the period from December 29 to January 4.

Health services observed a gradual increase during the holiday season. Between December 15 and 21, 920 cases were reported, compared to 1,001 from December 22 to 28. The latest available figures indicate that 1,194 cases have been reported in public health services.

According to Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, acting director of health services, this increase is mainly attributed to the high temperatures, as well as the consumption of insufficiently cooked or poorly stored foods. He emphasizes that many people eat out, and in some cases, foods like grilled items are not cooked properly. With high temperatures, other products can also spoil quickly if not stored correctly. "Heat is one of the risk factors for pathogens to proliferate," he says, specifically mentioning salmonella and E. coli.

Among the most at-risk foods, the doctor mentions chicken, meat, seafood, and egg-based preparations, particularly mayonnaise. He also stresses the importance of being cautious during gatherings, highlighting that prepared dishes must be stored properly and reheated correctly before consumption. Prepared foods should not be left out of the refrigerator for more than two hours, he reminds us.

Dr. Fazil Khodabocus recommends boiling tap water before consumption, thoroughly washing raw fruits and vegetables, discarding those that have fallen on the ground, and maintaining good hand hygiene.