18 municipalities in Sicily on Salmonella alert

A Salmonella outbreak has been reported in Sicily, within the provinces of Trapani and Agrigento, with traces of the bacteria found in water samples from the ‘Garcia’ dam and originating from the ‘Sambuca’ water treatment plant. The contamination was identified by Siciliacque company, who subsequently enhanced the disinfection treatment to eliminate the presence of bacteria, and informed the relevant local health authorities. These measures were taken to protect public health. The Siciliacque company has conducted new water sampling downstream of the drinking water treatment plant, which is already subject to additional intermediate disinfection before distribution. In light of the ongoing investigation, the local health authority of the affected provinces has advised the mayors of 18 municipalities to implement temporary water restrictions until the source of the contamination is identified and addressed.