Major suspected gastro outbreak leaves guests sick after wedding in Albert Park
A bride and groom have had their dream wedding turn into a nightmare after dozens of their guests came down with gastro.
An investigation has been launched after dozens of guests became ill after attending a wedding.
The outbreak of suspected gastroenteritis occurred on Saturday night after a wedding at The Park venue in Albert Park, Melbourne.
It’s understood about 300 people attended the wedding.
In the wake of the couple’s happy day, about 30 of their guests experienced fever, nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting.
A wedding guest told The Age they had been offered chicken or pork as their main during the night.
The Victorian Department of Health is now investigating the outbreak.
“The department is aware of a gastroenteritis outbreak involving guests who attended an Albert Park reception centre on Saturday,” a spokesman said.
“We’re working with Port Phillip Council to investigate the source of the outbreak and to ensure all appropriate infection prevention and control measures are in place.”
The venue is working with authorities to determine what caused the outbreak.
“We are working closely with event guests and with council to determine the cause of the outbreak,” The Park told the Herald Sun in a statement.
It’s not believed the illness experienced by the wedding guests is linked to the current outbreak of listeria in NSW, Victoria and Queensland.
What is gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is a short-term illness triggered by the infection and inflammation of the digestive system. Symptoms can include abdominal cramps, diarrhoea and vomiting.
Some of the causes of gastroenteritis include viruses, bacteria, bacterial toxins, parasites, particular chemicals and some drugs.