Gastroenteritis outbreak on Faial raises concerns

Health authorities are investigating an outbreak of gastroenteritis on the island of Faial, where nearly five hundred cases have been recorded since the beginning of July in the emergency department of Hospital da Horta.

The cause of the outbreak remains unknown, but several agencies point to a viral origin, according to reports from various news sources.

The regional Health Delegate is awaiting the results of tests that could clarify the situation and assist in containing the spread among the population.

In the meantime, authorities are recommending protective and preventive measures to avoid the spread of the disease.