At least 60 attendees at the sex-positive queer electronic music festival WHOLE in Gräfenhainichen, Germany, have contracted norovirus, leading to severe vomiting and diarrhoea. Local health authorities confirmed that lab tests from two infected attendees tested positive for norovirus, and evidence suggests the virus is spreading through person-to-person contact rather than contaminated food.
Festival Organisers Respond
In a statement on Instagram, festival organisers said: "During our build week, a small number of crew members experienced gastrointestinal symptoms. We have been working in close coordination with the local health department to assess the situation and confirmed through a lab analysis that it is Norovirus." They added that drinking water has been tested and is safe, and the lake remains safe for swimming.
Organisers stressed that the situation is stabilising and that enhanced hygiene measures, including increased cleaning and disinfection, have been implemented. They urged attendees to wash hands regularly, use hand sanitiser stations, and seek medical help if feeling unwell.
Hygiene Concerns at the Site
According to German news outlet BILD, health inspectors identified several hygiene issues at the festival site, such as inadequate protection of food. However, organisers maintain that water sources pose no risk.
Impact on Attendees
The festival, popular among Britain's LGBTQ+ rave scene and featuring several UK acts, describes itself as "one of the most vital queer gatherings in the world . . . where rave energy meets reflection, and pleasure exists alongside care." The outbreak has affected at least 60 dancers on day one, with symptoms including nausea, severe vomiting, watery diarrhoea, and stomach cramps.
Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads easily through close contact. Attendees are advised to follow hygiene protocols to prevent further spread.
