North Macedonia: Over 1,500 Treated for Infections in Gostivar, Suspected Water Contamination

An epidemic has been declared in the North Macedonian city of Gostivar, where over 1,500 residents have received treatment for intestinal infections. The outbreak is strongly suspected to be linked to contaminated river water entering the municipal drinking water system.

Residents of Gostivar, a city of nearly 32,000 inhabitants in the northwest, began seeking medical attention for gastrointestinal issues early last week. With temperatures soaring above 35°C, authorities issued a ban on using tap water on Friday. The epidemic was officially declared on Sunday following a surge of 350 new intoxication cases within a 24-hour period. The local hospital has increased its staff, and approximately 50,000 liters of bottled water are being distributed daily.

While authorities have not definitively confirmed the cause, police indicated an ongoing investigation. Initial findings suggest the municipal water supply company may have drawn water from a nearby river to supplement the network. This action was likely taken to increase water pressure amid a shortage, a problem Gostivar reportedly experiences regularly during the summer months. The government has assured that all institutions are conducting intensive checks and investigations to determine the precise causes of the epidemic.