Rome, 1 July 2024 (dpa/MIA) – An outbreak of Norovirus in Torri del Benaco on Lake Garda in northern Italy has put more than 300 people in hospital and made many others ill with diarrhoea, vomiting, cramps, fever and nausea, the authorities reported on Monday.

More than 900 cases have been recorded in the municipality on the eastern shore of the lake, which is a popular holiday destination for Italians and foreign tourists. The virus is thought to have spread through the town's drinking water.

The municipal authorities have issued an instruction to buy bottled water, and clean water is being distributed free of charge.

News reports speculate that the outbreak is linked to high levels in the lake following heavy rains over recent weeks, leading to the sewerage system being overwhelmed. There was no official confirmation of the reports.

The municipal authorities said they were seeking to ascertain how the virus was spreading. While traces were found in drinking water on Friday, more recent tests by the water supplier have turned out negative.

Nevertheless, Mayor Stefano Nicotra continued to recommend caution. "Do not use mains water for personal or food use," he said. The water should not be used for cooking or washing food.

While the municipality has only 3,000 permanent residents, many holidaymakers have arrived.

Norovirus is highly contagious but usually short-lived.

Photo: Wikipedia