MOSCOW, April 13 (Xinhua) -- The number of people affected by an acute intestinal infection in Russia's Vladimir region reached 677 between April 7 and 13, local authorities said Monday.
According to the press service of the regional government, 318 of the infected are children. Outpatient treatment has been provided to 573 individuals, including 272 children.
Regional health officials said that most patients are in moderate condition, and 46 patients have already been discharged, adding that the number of new cases is now declining.
Laboratory tests confirmed norovirus in 36 cases, while the remaining infections have been classified as acute intestinal infections.
An epidemiological investigation was launched on April 8 by the regional office of Russia's consumer safety watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, following the outbreak. Preliminary findings suggest the infections may be linked to contamination of the local water supply with norovirus.
Authorities said testing of drinking water quality is ongoing, with around 230 samples collected and analyzed at various stages of water treatment. Disinfection of the water supply network is being carried out across the district.
In addition, vaccination against hepatitis A is being administered to residents based on epidemiological indications, as part of efforts to prevent further spread of the disease. ■
