A Hotel in Spain Faces Backlash After Suspected Salmonella Outbreak
A four-star hotel in La Manga, Spain, has come under intense scrutiny following a suspected salmonella outbreak that has left over 100 tourists sick. The Izan Cavanna Hotel, located just 15 minutes from the luxurious La Manga Club, has finally spoken out about the incident, expressing deep regret while defending its response to the crisis.
Regional health officials confirmed that 47 individuals required treatment at Santa Lucia Hospital in Cartagena, with nine of them—three children among them—still hospitalized in stable condition. Among those treated were several children, a 15-month-old baby, and a woman who was heavily pregnant. Her husband described her condition as "delicate" and criticized the hotel for not responding quickly enough to their needs.
A field hospital was set up at the resort as numerous guests reported symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever after consuming food from the buffet. Authorities are currently investigating two dishes served during Saturday’s lunchtime service: a fish course and a sauce accompanying a spinach-filled pasta dish. Initially, only 28 cases were reported, but by Sunday, the number had risen to over 100 out of the 800 holidaymakers staying at the hotel.
Health officials have labeled the situation as "probable salmonella poisoning," though final test results are still pending. The potential outbreak has led to threats of a class-action lawsuit from affected guests, who claim the hotel failed to address the issue promptly.
In a detailed statement released late on Sunday, the hotel management expressed their commitment to resolving the situation and emphasized their focus on guest safety. They outlined several steps taken since the first cases were reported:
- Collaboration with health authorities: The hotel immediately notified local public health officials and continues to work closely with them to investigate the source of the outbreak.
- Assistance to affected guests: A team is providing medical support to those impacted, ensuring they receive the necessary care and remain in contact with them.
- Hygiene and Disinfection Protocols: Enhanced cleaning procedures have been implemented across all facilities.
- Continuity of Service: An external catering company has been hired to ensure meals continue without interruption, operating under strict food safety standards.
The hotel also reiterated its deep regret for the distress caused and pledged to manage the matter with diligence and transparency. However, the statement came after days of silence from the hotel, which continued to promote its cocktails and mojitos on social media even as guests were being taken to the hospital.
One frustrated guest, still staying at the hotel, shared her experience online. She mentioned that her wife, who was eight months pregnant, had been admitted to the hospital due to food poisoning. Despite contacting the hotel early on Sunday, she said no one had returned her call, and her belongings remained in the room.
Throughout the weekend, ambulances were seen arriving at the hotel, with some guests receiving rehydration drips in their rooms. Others were placed on stretchers in corridors. A mother named Susan told a local newspaper that her 15-year-old daughter was discharged from the hospital despite still experiencing fever and dehydration.
Another tourist claimed that her friend became unwell after eating a fish dish at the hotel’s buffet. She noted that while others at the same meal ate meat and felt fine, her friend was the only one who consumed the fish and fell ill.
Health officials have confirmed that 24 adults and 23 children were treated in the emergency department over the weekend. They stated that initial microbiological tests suggest a salmonella outbreak, but full results may take weeks.
Understanding Salmonella
Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause infections in the gut. These bacteria live in the intestines of animals and humans and are shed through feces. Humans typically become infected through contaminated water or food. Cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods can also lead to infection.
Symptoms of a salmonella infection include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes vomiting and fever. Symptoms usually appear within 12 to 72 hours after exposure and can last for four to seven days. Most people recover without treatment, but severe cases may require hospitalization due to dehydration.
In rare instances, salmonella can lead to serious complications, such as the infection spreading to the bloodstream, resulting in severe illness or long-term issues like reactive arthritis. It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
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