Tap water banned in North Macedonia city after 4,000 fall ill

Tap water remains banned in Gostivar, a city in northwestern North Macedonia, after about 4,000 people reported stomach illness.

Residents have been told not to use the water even for washing. Officials recorded 80 new cases in 24 hours, about half the previous daily rate.

Investigators found an illegal pump feeding water from the Vardar River into the city supply. Tests found bacteria at 48 times the legal limit.

The government declared a 30-day state of crisis. Three water utility officials have been arrested.

Health officials say the outbreak is slowing, but testing and disinfection continue.