Waterborne Campylobacter in Sweden: the cost of an outbreak

Outbreaks of waterborne disease happen in Sweden, as in most other countries. During the period 1980-1995, a total of 90 outbreaks were reported, involving about 50,000 sick people and two deaths. About 80% of the outbreaks are caused by unknown agents but Campylobacter is the most common agent. Between 1980 and 1995, 11 campylobacteriosis outbreaks were reported, three of which had 1,000->3,000 sick people involved. These waterborne outbreaks cost society, the water-treatment plant involved and the sick person a lot of money. A waterborne outbreak also raises the question whether people can have confidence in the community tap water.