A highly attended public health event titled “Emergency Events – Outbreaks of Waterborne and Foodborne Diseases: Tools, Practices, and Protocols” was held at the Cultural Center of Chania, on April 8, 2025.  The event was organized by the Department of Public Health of the Prefecture of Crete as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen public health preparedness and prevention across the island. 

The forum brought together leading experts and institutional stakeholders to address the growing incidence of gastroenteritis and other infections such as norovirus and Legionella, which have affected various areas of Crete, including recent outbreaks in Gavdos and Chania. 

Speakers included representatives from the University of Crete, the Regional Public Health Laboratory (PEDY), the 7th Health District, the General Hospital of Chania, and the Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), who presented practical approaches to early detection and containment of outbreaks. Emphasis was placed on preventive strategies, hygiene protocols, and inter-agency coordination.