Neko Hotel investigation reveals food contamination in Saturn

An epidemiological investigation has concluded regarding a suspected food poisoning outbreak at the Neko Hotel in Saturn, Romania. The incident, which occurred on September 1, required the activation of the Red Plan for Intervention after 58 tourists, including 11 minors, required medical assistance.

Results from the Constanța Public Health Directorate (DSP) revealed that while drinking water and surface sanitation tests were compliant, significant issues were found in specific food items. Tests on chicken stew (ciulama de pui) and mashed potatoes (piure de cartofi) identified levels of Enterobacteriaceae exceeding permitted limits. Re-testing conducted on September 8 confirmed the continued presence of these bacteria in the food samples.

Additionally, health officials identified the presence of Staphylococcus aureus in one food block employee during nasal and skin swab testing. While patient coprocultures were negative for the primary pathogens investigated, the contamination in the prepared meals was confirmed as the source of the health concerns.