FHI investigates national outbreak of stomach and intestinal infection

Norway's Institute of Public Health (FHI) is actively investigating a national outbreak of the Yersinia infection, a stomach and intestinal illness. As of the latest report, nine individuals have been confirmed as infected, with the FHI suspecting at least six additional cases. The source of the infection is currently unknown, raising concerns about potential further spread.

"The source of infection is currently unknown, and we therefore cannot rule out that more people may become infected in the outbreak," stated Silje Bruland Lavoll, a senior medical officer at FHI, in a press release. The infection typically lasts one to two weeks, with symptoms appearing three to seven days after exposure.

The FHI has initiated an outbreak investigation in partnership with the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet), the Veterinary Institute, and relevant municipal health officials. The 15 individuals involved in the outbreak were tested between May 26 and June 15. They represent a wide age range, from 10 to 75 years old, with a median age of 29. The cases are geographically dispersed across Norway, with individuals residing in Trøndelag, Vestfold, Telemark, Østfold, Innlandet, Rogaland, and Vestland.