STOCKHOLM (BN24) — Four people have been diagnosed with sepsis following a suspected listeria outbreak at a luxury restaurant in Stockholm, Swedish health authorities said Thursday. The outbreak, linked to Coco & Carmen in the capital’s upscale Östermalm district, has prompted the restaurant to shut down temporarily as investigations continue.
At least 15 individuals have been hospitalized or are under medical observation after eating at the restaurant, with around 85 people reporting symptoms of food poisoning. So far, none of the hospitalized patients have required intensive care, according to regional health officials.
Sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition triggered by the body’s extreme response to infection, can develop in rare cases of listeriosis, the illness caused by listeria bacteria. While most people infected with listeria experience mild, flu-like symptoms, those with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and pregnant women face a higher risk of severe complications, including meningitis and sepsis.
Maria Rotzén Östlund, an infectious disease specialist with the Stockholm regional authority, told Swedish broadcaster SVT that guests who dined at Coco & Carmen between September 23 and 27 are being contacted as part of an expanding infection tracing effort. The investigation originally targeted the period from September 25 to 27 but was broadened after additional reports emerged.
“Those with ongoing symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea are now recommended to visit a hospital emergency room for assessment,” Rotzén Östlund said.
City officials said approximately 400 people have been contacted through a digital infection-tracking tool to assist in containment efforts. A press release from the region’s health department warned that “a large number of people may have been infected,” and reiterated the heightened risk listeria poses to vulnerable populations.
Coco & Carmen, which markets itself as a high-end culinary destination, announced it had voluntarily closed until further notice. The restaurant said in a statement that it has always met food safety standards and is cooperating fully with authorities. Owners expressed hope of reopening on October 7, pending the outcome of the investigation.
“We take this extremely seriously, and as the well-being of our guests is our top priority, we have voluntarily closed until further notice,” the restaurant said.
Co-owner and chef Joakim Almquist told SVT he was devastated by the incident. “The only thing I can do is sincerely apologise, because I suffer with these people,” he said.
Listeria is a bacterium commonly found in soil, water, and animals. It can contaminate food, especially items stored for extended periods in refrigerated conditions, such as deli meats, soft cheeses, and smoked fish. The incubation period for listeriosis can range from a few days to up to three weeks, making tracing and containment particularly challenging.
The investigation into the source of the contamination at Coco & Carmen is ongoing.
