A report by the Institute of Public Health has revealed the findings of the epidemiological investigation conducted after the increase in cases of diarrhea and gastrointestinal symptoms in Fushë-Arrëz. According to the report, during the period 24 August–3 September 2026, 139 people with gastrointestinal symptoms presented to the Fushë-Arrëz Health Center. Of these, 128 cases, or 91.7%, are residents of Fushë-Arrëz, with cases concentrated mainly in the “Demokracia” and “Nushaj” neighborhoods.
All cases had diarrhea, while 128 people reported vomiting and 81 had fever. The ages of the affected people range from 2 to 94 years old. The IHP investigation focused on the water supply system, as the affected residents stated that they consume water from the public network and are supplied by the same system. At the same time, during the investigation period it was found that the water supply is not continuous and is carried out on a schedule.
Laboratory analyses have confirmed microbiological contamination at several points in the supply system. Coliforms, E. coli and enterococci were found in Depot No. 1, while coliforms, E. coli, enterococci and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were detected at a terminal point near the former Park. Another important finding is related to the substance used for water disinfection. The analysis of sodium hypochlorite showed that the active chlorine was 9.04%, while the limit set in the report is 13–15%, not meeting the requirements for use in the chlorination and disinfection process of drinking water.
In contrast to the water results, 17 clinical samples taken from affected individuals tested negative for the required bacterial and viral pathogens, including Norovirus, Rotavirus, Adenovirus, Astrovirus and Sapovirus. The IPH assesses that the concentration of cases in the area supplied by the same water supply system, the impact of different age groups and the evidence of microbiological contamination of the water constitute strong indicators for a common source of exposure linked to the water supply system.
In conclusion, the report classifies the event as a “hydrogenic explosion”, linking it to the failure to correctly implement hygiene and sanitation practices that guarantee the quality and safety of drinking water. The IHP recommends, among other things, cleaning and disinfection of storage facilities and supply lines, strengthening the chlorination process, systematic monitoring of residual chlorine and taking measures to ensure safe water supply alternatives until the situation improves.
