Summary of Large Typhoid Outbreak Traced to Contaminated Drinking Water:
A large outbreak of typhoid fever on an old cruise ship used as emergency accommodation in the Netherlands was caused by contaminated water tanks, according to a report presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. The source was traced to a corroded common wall between the freshwater and wastewater tanks, leading to sewage-containing bacteria seeping into the water and food preparation facilities. Seventy-two cases were confirmed among asylum seekers and staff, all recovering after treatment. The study’s authors highlighted the importance of strict water quality supervision, proper maintenance, and regular inspections of water tanks and equipment on ships.
*****
Contaminated Water Tanks on Old Cruise Ship Cause Typhoid Outbreak in the Netherlands
A large outbreak of typhoid fever occurred in the spring of 2022 on an old cruise ship used as emergency accommodation in the Netherlands. The source of the attack was traced to the water tanks on the boat, according to a report presented at the upcoming European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases.
Common Wall Between Freshwater and Wastewater Tanks Was Corroded and Allowed Bacteria to Leak
The investigation found that a common wall between the freshwater and wastewater tanks had severely eroded, with small holes that allowed sewage containing Salmonella typhi (S. typhi). This bacterium causes typhoid fever to leak into the freshwater supply. The contaminated water was then used as drinking water and for food preparation. Seventy-two cases of typhoid were confirmed among asylum seekers and staff, all of whom recovered after treatment.
Typhoid Is Highly Contagious and Can Be Fatal Without Prompt Treatment
Typhoid is spread by food and water contaminated with S. typhi and is highly contagious. Symptoms include a high temperature, headache, stomach pain, and constipation or diarrhea. When treated promptly with antibiotics, the infection is usually mild, but it can be fatal without treatment.
Control Measures Were Put in Place to Prevent the Further Spread of the Outbreak
The municipal health service in Kennemerland was notified on April 6, 2022, of an ongoing outbreak of fever and abdominal complaints on the Liberty Ann, the old cruise ship being used as emergency accommodation. Typhoid fever was quickly diagnosed, and control measures were implemented to prevent further spread. Bottled water was provided, food preparation on the ship halted, and all the asylum seekers were moved to other accommodations.
Frequent Consumption of Food and Tap Water on the Ship Was Associated with Developing Typhoid
Frequent consumption of food and tap water on the ship was associated with developing typhoid. To identify the source of the outbreak and mode of transmission, all asylum seekers and staff members were asked to complete a questionnaire about their consumption of tap water and meals on the ship. They were also asked to provide fecal and blood samples. Tests on S. typhi cultured from the cases’ blood or feces showed all models to be genetically identical, pointing to a common source of infection.
Water Tanks and Associated Equipment Must Be Properly Maintained and Regularly Inspected
The study’s authors conclude, “Strict water quality supervision is key to the health and safety of those aboard ships. Those involved in the maintenance, operation, and regulation of ships must take necessary measures to avoid outbreaks of waterborne diseases like typhoid. Water tanks and associated equipment must be properly maintained and subject to regular inspections.”
In conclusion, the typhoid outbreak on Liberty Ann highlights the importance of maintaining and regularly inspecting water tanks and associated equipment on ships to ensure the health and safety of passengers and crew. It is crucial to follow strict regulations and protocols to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases on boats.
Comments are closed