Mystery still surrounds the cause of a gastroenteritis outbreak at the Waipā Business Awards despite the caterer issuing a public apology this week.
Livingstone’s team – which won Business of the Year – at the awards – from left, Lloyd Stephenson, Kieran Nally, Kim Wihare, Marita Lavery, Jade Thomas, Sarah Livingstone, Amy Bryce. Photo: Christine Cornege
Public health officials from Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand, Ministry of Primary Industries and Waipā District Council have been investigating since 100 people – about a quarter of those present – experienced gastro symptoms following the awards at Mystery Creek earlier this month.
Viral gastroenteritis
Waikato medical officer of health Geoff Cramp said two bacterial pathogens had been identified but no definitive source of the illness has been linked to the outbreak. It was foodborne, consistent with the symptoms reported, including diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort.
“It would not be appropriate to speculate on the specific source or method of transmission at this stage,” he said.
Foodborne illnesses can result from consuming contaminated food or beverages and may occur at any point in the food production and handling process. According to the World Health Organization, contamination can stem from polluted water, soil, or air, as well as improper food storage or processing.
The caterer was Cambridge Raceway’s caterer Off the Track. Chief executive Dave Branch said his team cared deeply about their work.
“This isn’t the standard we hold ourselves to, and we’ve taken this seriously from the outset. We’re committed to learning from this, taking responsibility where it’s due, and doing everything we can to move forward with integrity.”
Cambridge Raceway chief executive Dave Branch at the business awards with Ross & Co Hair Design’s Patricia Ross.
