An outbreak of gastroenteritis has been reported in Torri del Benaco, in the province of Verona, affecting over 300 people, including tourists. Mayor Stefano Nicotra announced on social media that the Norovirus, which is responsible for the infection, may be present in the water tanks. Local authorities estimate that there could be up to 900 cases. Noroviruses are part of the Caliciviridae family, characterized as single-stranded RNA viruses. They are one of the most common causes of acute gastroenteritis from non-bacterial sources, posing a significant challenge to food safety. Consequently, the Higher Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità ) has compiled a guide on Norovirus.
Currently, there is no specific treatment or preventive vaccine for Norovirus. The immunization mechanisms against Norovirus remain largely unclear, and scientific research indicates that immunity may only persist for a few months. As a result, individuals can experience multiple reinfections with the virus over their lifetime.
