Aswan’s Mysterious Illness: Egyptian Government Reveals Cause

Health Minister Confirms Reduction in Intestinal Infections

The Egyptian government has shed light on the mysterious illness that has been affecting residents in Aswan, revealing that the cause is a coliform bacterial infection, specifically Escherichia bacteria (E. coli).

The Egyptian Ministry of Health observed several patients visiting Aswan Hospital with symptoms of intestinal infection, including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Following a thorough investigation, the ministry confirmed that the symptoms were caused by E. coli bacteria, which can be found in contaminated water, food, or feces.

Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, explained that the severity of symptoms varies with different strains of E. coli bacteria. He noted that some strains can cause mild symptoms, while others can lead to more severe conditions, especially in people with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems.

The ministry has taken measures to address the issue, including conducting medical convoys and visiting homes to investigate the cause of the disease. The government has also formed investigation committees to look into the matter and identify those who have been exposed to the bacteria.

According to Dr. Iman Al-Said, a consultant in internal medicine, intensive care, and critical care, there are several types of E. coli bacteria, some of which can cause minor damage, while others can lead to kidney failure. She noted that the sources of infection are contaminated water or food, eating undercooked meat, or drinking unpasteurized milk.

The health minister noted that some people in Aswan have built sewage cisterns near drinking water sources, which has contributed to the spread of the bacteria. The ministry is currently working to repair the sewage systems and prevent further contamination.

An internal medicine consultant explained that E. coli bacteria can spread infection through contaminated food or water, which may have been the case in Aswan. The infection can also be transmitted through contact with an infected person.

The Egyptian minister confirmed that the number of cases has decreased, with only 18-19 cases reported per day. He noted that the number of gastroenteritis cases is very low compared to the size and population of the governorate.

The governor of Aswan, Ismail Kamal, visited the village of Abu al-Rish and drank tea and water with the residents, indicating that he is well and does not suffer from any symptoms of illness.

Key Facts:

• The cause of the mysterious illness in Aswan is a coliform bacterial infection, specifically Escherichia bacteria (E. coli).
• The bacteria can be found in contaminated water, food, or feces.
• The severity of symptoms varies with different strains of E. coli bacteria.
• The ministry has taken measures to address the issue, including conducting medical convoys and visiting homes to investigate the cause of the disease.
• The number of cases has decreased, with only 18-19 cases reported per day.

Related News:

• Aswan’s Mysterious Illness: What You Need to Know
• Egyptian Government Takes Measures to Address Aswan’s Mysterious Illness
• Expert Explains the Causes and Symptoms of E. coli Infection