Gostivar water contamination remains a public health concern despite signs that the recent outbreak is slowing.
Health officials say the situation is improving, but residents are still being urged not to drink or use tap water until authorities confirm it is safe.
Illness Cases Continue to Decline
The number of new gastrointestinal illness cases has continued to decrease, suggesting the outbreak is gradually coming under control.
However, officials stress that the city’s water supply remains unsafe while monitoring and disinfection efforts continue.
Water Quality Monitoring Continues
Authorities are regularly testing chlorine levels and water quality at multiple locations throughout the distribution network.
The restrictions will remain in place until laboratory testing confirms that the municipal water supply is safe for drinking and everyday use.
Residents are advised to continue following official guidance until new updates are issued.
Health Officials Monitor Hepatitis Cases
Health authorities are also closely monitoring several hepatitis cases identified during the outbreak.
Epidemiologists are working to determine whether the infections are linked to the Gostivar water contamination or whether they are unrelated cases that require separate investigation.
Criminal Investigation Remains Ongoing
The criminal investigation into the contamination is continuing.
Prosecutors allege that unauthorized equipment allowed polluted water to enter the city’s drinking water system, leading to one of the largest public health incidents in recent years.
Several suspects remain under investigation as authorities work to determine how the contamination occurred.
Residents Advised to Use Bottled Water
Until officials officially lift the restrictions, residents are being advised to continue using bottled water for drinking and other essential purposes.
Authorities say the restrictions will only be removed once testing confirms that the municipal water supply is safe again.
