Outbreak of Clostridium perfringens food poisoning

An outbreak of diarrhoea occurred at a 647-bedded long-stay hospital from 11 to 14 June 1989. Fifty-eight elderly residents developed symptoms and there were two deaths. The organism was identified as Clostridium perfringens type A, serotype TW23. The source of the outbreak was found to be inadequately reheated minced beef served at lunchtime on 11 June. The reason why only 4 of the possible 16 wards receiving minced beef were affected was thought to be due to the division of the batch of minced beef at a late stage in the preparation process. We conclude that there is a need for effective bowel and nutrition policies and that these are high priorities for audit.