A stomach and bowel disease outbreaks have hit the large scout camp in Gjøvik. A water tap is suspected as source of infection.
- The scout camp in Gjøvik affected by gastrointestinal disease with 70 cases reported.
- A water tap is suspected as a source of infection and is now closed.
- The organizers have informed the participants about symptoms and hygiene.
This week the scouts’ country camp is being held in Gjøvik – Norway’s largest scout camp.
For the first time in history, all the Norwegian scouting associations are gathered in one place. Over 10,000 scouts, robbers and leaders have looked up their tents on the grassy plains outside the Gobb Vind Arena.
It was TV2 who mentioned the case first.
But through the week, reports on gastric trouble from participants have been reported.
– Some of the symptoms are probably due to some participants drinking water from a water source that we suspect is not marked on the camp map. This crane is now closed, says Astrid-Amalie Heldal, press officer at the scout’s country camp to VG.
Press officer at the scout’s country camp
The symptoms vary from mild nausea and loose stomach to vomiting. Several of the sick have had to seek out the emergency room.
During the week, they have registered 70 cases of gastrointestinal symptoms.
– We are over 10,500 participants at the camp, which corresponds to a per thousand of 7.2 – this is below both the average nationally. And the requirements for reporting, says Heldal.
The organizers suspect that a water source is the cause of the onset.
– The camp is going on this week. We have had some cases of gastrointestinal symptoms throughout the week, where a few are suspected of water source. From suspicion that the water source was reported yesterday afternoon until measures were taken, it went under 10 minutes, Heldal says.
The source was blocked off on Thursday, and testing of the water has been initiated. Water cans that may have been filled from the suspected source are collected and emptied.
– We have informed all camp participants about what symptoms they should be aware of and what treatment measures they can do. In addition, we have arranged for good hygiene, says Heldal.
Acting municipal consultant in Gjøvik, Jens A. Mørch, confirms that the camp has reported the outbreak.
He tells TV2 that the camp has its own professional staff with doctors and health professionals who handle the situation.
According to Heldal, the outbreak does not have consequences for the implementation of the camp, which continues with good atmosphere and events.