Authorities report that the recent cluster of salmonella cases in Lamia appears to be under control and entering a de-escalation phase. While the suspected supplier of contaminated food products has been identified, inspections by veterinary and public health services continue — and are intensifying — across the entire supply chain linked to that provider.
Outbreak Traced to Multiple Restaurants
The investigation began after dozens of residents presented at Lamia General Hospital with symptoms of acute gastroenteritis. Initial findings pointed investigators toward a common source of contamination within the local food supply chain.
According to Andreas Toulis, Deputy Regional Governor for Health of Central Greece, “The current picture indicates the situation is under control and in a de-escalation phase. The health condition of hospitalized patients is good, and most are expected to be discharged shortly.” He added that inspections are ongoing at all levels and that laboratory test results are pending.
22 Confirmed Cases, 12 Still Hospitalized
Official data from the Region of Central Greece confirm 22 laboratory-verified salmonella cases so far. Twelve patients remain hospitalized — primarily in the Internal Medicine Department and the Short-Stay Unit of Lamia General Hospital. Their clinical course is stable, and most, who are under 30 years old, are expected to be discharged on Wednesday, 15 July.
A coordination meeting was held earlier involving Deputy Regional Governor for Health Andreas Toulis, Deputy Regional Governor for Fthiotida Prefecture Elias Sanidas, and Deputy Regional Governor for Agricultural Economy, Livestock, and Fisheries Konstantinos Apostolopoulos, alongside senior officials from relevant departments.
Widespread Inspections Underway
Lamia General Hospital confirmed the presence of Salmonella through laboratory testing and immediately notified the competent authorities. The Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) remains in continuous contact with the Directorate of Public Health and Social Welfare of Fthiotida Prefecture. Joint inspection teams are conducting extensive checks at restaurants across Lamia.
Epidemiological analysis so far shows no direct links among the affected individuals — none shared meals or had close personal contact. However, all had visited one of six different eateries in the city. As part of full traceability efforts, food handlers from those establishments — as well as individuals connected to the implicated supplier’s supply chain — have undergone microbiological testing. Results are still pending.
Meanwhile, veterinary and health inspectors are stepping up surveillance across the entire supply chain of the suspect supplier, from production and distribution to retail and food service outlets.