Salmonella outbreak in Lamia: “Avoid chicken products for three days” – Supplier identified

Investigations by the competent authorities are in full swing following dozens of gastroenteritis cases in Lamia, which are believed to be linked to possible salmonella contamination.

Initial findings point to a specific chicken supplier, although inspections are continuing in order to identify the full distribution chain of the product.

Speaking to STAR Central Greece, the Deputy Regional Governor for Health of Central Greece, Andreas Toulias, said authorities have already carried out extensive inspections at food service establishments, while samples of raw chicken have been sent for laboratory testing.

“We sent an inspector together with a veterinarian, and checks are being carried out at all the food establishments from which the suspected chicken products came. We inspected all the employees. We are focusing on the supplier. We found the supplier, took samples of raw chicken and sent them to a laboratory in Chalkida. We are trying to trace the entire chain because there is a final supplier, an intermediary, and the breeding unit,” he said.

At the same time, Toulias sought to reassure the public regarding the development of the outbreak, stressing that authorities are now focused on identifying the source of the contamination.

“I believe we will not have any more cases. Chicken is a high-risk food, especially during the summer. We have identified where it came from and we are working to ensure it is not supplied again. I believe we have caught the source,” he said.