Mandatoriccio: 25 children hospitalized after swimming in the sea

Twenty-five children, aged 2 to 17, have been hospitalized after experiencing acute gastroenteritis symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and high fever following a day at the sea in Mandatoriccio, Cosenza. The affected children are tourists from various Italian provinces, including Latina, Naples, Avellino, and Lecce.

Local health authorities (ASP Cosenza) have activated epidemiological and environmental protocols to investigate the cause. While medical experts suggest a likely viral origin due to the rapid onset of symptoms, investigations are also focusing on potential environmental contamination. A temporary ban on swimming has been implemented within 150 meters of the Armirò river mouth.

Concerns have been raised regarding the local sewage treatment plant. Vice Mayor Francesco Pugliese noted a possible malfunction in the purifier, and Legambiente reported observing sludge leakage and insufficient containment measures at the facility. Regional representatives have also called for transparency regarding the status of local water purification infrastructure and the implementation of previously funded environmental interventions.