A mass outbreak of salmonellosis has been reported at a hotel located on the La Manga del Mar Menor resort coast in Cartagena. Over the past 24 hours, the number of hospitalizations has risen from 9 to 21, including both adults and children.
The symptoms appeared among hotel guests over the past weekend. Those affected reported vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in some cases, fever. More than forty people required medical assistance, but the illness is most severe in 12 adults and 8 children who were admitted to Santa Lucía Hospital. Another adult patient is under observation at Virgen de la Arrixaca Hospital in El Palmar.
According to regional authorities, the total number of those seeking medical attention has exceeded one hundred. Doctors continue to monitor the condition of patients, while epidemiologists are investigating the source of infection. Preliminary findings suggest the outbreak is linked to the consumption of food prepared in the hotel’s kitchen.
In connection with the incident, the hotel’s kitchen operations have been temporarily suspended. Experts are conducting a sanitary inspection and taking samples of food and water. Until the investigation is complete, the preparation and serving of food in the hotel is prohibited.
The authorities of Murcia are urging anyone who recently visited this hotel and experienced any symptoms to seek medical attention immediately. They also emphasize that the situation is under control and all necessary measures to prevent further spread of the infection have already been taken.
Salmonellosis is an acute infectious disease most commonly transmitted through food that has not been properly cooked. Outbreaks of this kind are rare in Spain, but the risk increases in the summer due to high temperatures and a large influx of tourists.
Regional medical services continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to respond promptly to any new cases. Laboratory test results are expected to help determine the exact cause of the outbreak and prevent similar incidents in the future.
