Food-borne outbreak of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis

An outbreak of pharyngitis due to group A beta-hemolytic streptococci type T 12 occurred at a military base. An epidemiologic investigation indicated that the outbreak was food borne. Consumption of boiled egg salad at lunch was significantly associated with the illness. Immediate institution of antibiotic therapy and isolation of the patients prevented secondary respiratory spread of the infection. No cases of poststreptococcal suppurative and nonsuppurative complications were found during a 6-week period after the outbreak. Medical personnel should be aware of the possibility of food-borne streptococcal pharyngitis. Regular health surveillance of food handlers and food preparation processes are important for prevention of such outbreaks.