[Animals as sources of infections in humans--salmonellosis]

Foodborne infections/intoxications of men including salmonelloses increased as a whole in the last years. Some reasons for this development are discussed. From the 2,500 Salmonella serovars known at present only 10 to 15 are of epidemic importance, in the first place S. Typhimurium and S. Enteritidis. Mainly salmonella-contaminated foodstuffs from animals are sources of Salmonella infections in men. In this connection raw eggs and raw egg-containing food, as well as raw meat and meat products are of prime importance. Especially endangered are humans whose mechanisms of infectious defence are not fully developed (infants, young children) or are impaired to some extent (elderly people, immunocompromised persons). Salmonellosis control has to be carried out as a concerted action along the whole food chain, starting at animal farms and continuing with adequate methods at each stage of food production and processing, in trade, in restaurants and canteens up to private households. In connection with the health protection of consumers hygienic education of staff handling foodstuffs, as well as information of consumers are very important. Despite some deficiencies our knowledge is sufficient to work effectively in practice to improve the situation.