EPIDEMIC OF ACUTE GASTROENTERITIS IN DEÇAN MUNICIPALITY, JULY 2021: CHALLENGES IN RESEARCH AND MANAGEMENT OF THE EPIDEMIC

Introduction: This paper presents an in-depth analysis of the management of an acute gastroenteritis epidemic in the municipality of Deçan, with a specific focus on the epidemiological and environmental aspects of the event. The epidemic began in July 2021 and affected a significant number of residents in the municipality of Deçan and nearby areas. Aim: The aim of this research is to investigate and identify the routes and means of transmission of acute gastroenteritis in the municipality of Deçan, as well as other potential risk factors, with the goal of implementing appropriate control measures. Research Methodology: Descriptive epidemiological research methods and a case-control study model have been employed. Mixed methods (qualitative, quantitative, and laboratory) were applied. The results of clinical samples from affected patients and water samples from the water supply system and private wells were analyzed. The research was carried out at the QRSHP in Pejë and at the National Public Health Institution in Pristina in the Department of Human Ecology / TLC (Center of Testing Laboratories and the Laboratory of Microbiology, as well as some more specific testing are done in the external laboratories of our country. Within the epidemiological research framework, 1371 cases of acute gastroenteritis were surveyed and monitored, with an incidence rate of 3225.5 cases per 100,000 residents. The results indicate that the female gender and the age group 15-34 are the most affected, with the main symptoms being watery diarrhea and vomiting. The epidemic started on July 9, 2021, and peaked on July 11, 2021, coinciding with the cessation of drinking water supply from the Hasanagës Springs in Deçan. Physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses of the water showed that some water samples lacked residual chlorine, an indicator of unsafe drinking water. Some water samples exhibited bacterial contamination and exceeded the standards for drinking water. The results and conclusions of this study are important for understanding the epidemiology and the impact of water contamination on the spread of acute gastroenteritis in this area. They also provide recommendations for future prevention and treatment measures for this disease in the local community