Wallonia –The first confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) have emerged in a nursing home in Wallonia, resulting in 8 suspected patients, 2 of whom are hospitalized, and 1 death. The situation is under the close scrutiny of health authorities, with Belgium’s total infections reaching 20 and 5 fatalities, reports 24brussels.
As reported by VRT News, since August 19, the local nursing home has identified 8 suspected STEC cases. Unlike those hospitalized, 5 patients are currently isolating at home while authorities continue to manage the outbreak and prevent further transmission.
Measures Implemented by AViQ and NRC in Response to the STEC Outbreak
In response to this outbreak, AViQ, the Walloon Agency for Health and Social Care, dispatched an inspection team to the nursing home on August 29, 2025. The team collected samples to test for the presence of the bacteria and assessed hygiene protocols in place at the facility.
Hospital personnel confirmed proper isolation protocols for affected patients, and the health records of residents were evaluated to ensure adherence to infection control measures. Health authorities emphasized the critical need for stringent hygiene practices and diligent monitoring to contain this outbreak and safeguard vulnerable populations.
“That’s all happened,”
stated Lara Kotlar, spokeswoman for AViQ.
“Apart from these sick people, all the other residents are doing well.”
Samples collected from the nursing home are set to be sent to the National Reference Centre (NRC) on September 1, 2025. Experts at the NRC will analyze these samples for potential links to the STEC infections reported in Flanders.
Nationwide, Belgium has recorded approximately 20 infections across 6 care facilities, including sites in Flemish Brabant, Antwerp, and the Aalst region. Additionally, one staff member has tested positive, contributing to a total of 5 deaths associated with the infection. The first case in Belgium also occurred in a nursing home in Brussels.
