Health authorities in Cyprus have confirmed the presence of salmonella in cooked chicken with cream sauce, as well as the bacterium Bacillus cereus, following a mass food poisoning incident at a wedding reception in Limassol.
The findings were confirmed by the State General Laboratory, according to the Director of Health Services, Herodotos Herodotou, who spoke to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA). He said a total of nine food samples were taken from dishes served at the reception held last Sunday.
Further laboratory results still pending
Additional test results from the remaining samples are still awaited, while officials have not ruled out further investigation into possible toxins. Based on the initial findings, the identified food items have been deemed unfit for consumption.
Mr Herodotou said interviews with affected individuals are being completed and an incident report from the Limassol District Health Office is expected to follow, after which a final investigation report will be compiled.
Legal proceedings are expected to follow the conclusion of the inquiry.
Possible second outbreak under review
Asked about a second wedding reception held the previous Saturday at a different venue but reportedly serviced by the same catering company, Mr Herodotou said no information had yet been received regarding that event.
He urged anyone who attended or who may have experienced symptoms of food poisoning to contact the authorities and provide information, reiterating the importance of tracing any additional cases linked to the catering provider.
