Rise in 'dirty hands diseases' and tick risks: Warning from the NCDC

A natural increase in registered cases of gastroenteritis and enterocolitis related to so-called "dirty hands diseases" is being observed. This is warned by Prof. Ива Христова, Director of the National Center for Infectious and Parasitic Diseases (NCDC).

According to the specialist, the main symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. For many of these pathogens, such as noroviruses, the source of infection is the sick person themselves. The primary mechanism of transmission is through fecal matter, which necessitates extremely strict personal hygiene.

Risks in the food industry and product consumption

Prof. Христова emphasizes that control over personnel in catering establishments must be even more vigilant. In summer temperatures, a single infected employee can quickly spread the infection through food.

The main risk factors are:

• Products of animal origin (meat, dairy products, eggs), which should only be consumed after thermal treatment;
• Poorly washed leafy vegetables;
• Contaminated water.

She also pointed to staphylococcal toxic infections as a specific risk, where symptoms (profuse diarrhea and nausea) are due to the toxin released by the bacteria in the food rather than the bacteria itself, often occurring without an elevated temperature.

Ticks and seasonal risks

Although temperatures are not extremely high, the number of Lyme disease cases remains stable. Moderate humidity and the lack of intense heat create ideal conditions for tick activity. Patients should watch for redness at the bite site, which is a key sign of Lyme disease. If such symptoms appear, immediate medical intervention is necessary for the prescription of antibiotics.

Another serious threat is Mediterranean spotted fever (boutonneuse fever), which often leads to hospitalization and is characterized by a rash all over the body.

The global Ebola situation

At the international level, Prof. Христова noted the alarming outbreak of Ebola in the DR Congo. With over 2,000 cases and a mortality rate of over 30%, the situation is critical. The specialist recommends limiting travel to the affected areas and foresees a risk of the virus spreading outside of Africa.