Lake Garda, Italy’s popular tourist spot, is facing a significant norovirus outbreak. Over half of Torri del Benaco’s 3,000 residents have been affected by the highly contagious virus, with over 300 requiring hospitalization. The onset of summer holidays has made it easier for the virus to spread rapidly in the town.
Mayor Stefano Nicotra has taken steps to prevent the further spread of the virus by prohibiting residents and tourists from using tap water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The primary source of infection is believed to be through contaminated drinking water, although food could also be a contributing factor. The high water levels of Lake Garda have put pressure on the sewage system, which may have led to contaminated water entering the lake.
To address this issue, large trucks are being used to deliver safe drinking water from neighboring areas. The city services are treating all water pipes with chlorine to eliminate bacteria and viruses. It is hoped that this treatment will help alleviate some of the complications caused by the outbreak and reduce further pressure on Lake Garda’s sewage system. This is currently the highest water level recorded in Lake Garda since 1977.
