Pork and pork products as a source for human salmonellosis in Germany

Pork and pork products are increasingly recognized as an important source of human salmonellosis. In the present study, we describe the characteristics of recent German salmonellosis outbreaks related to pork, and discuss legal efforts for Salmonella control. From 2001 to 2005,five large salmonellosis outbreaks were reported in Germany for which pork was the probable vehicle of infection. Evidence came from epidemiologic studies, microbiologic testing, and trace back investigations. All outbreaks showed disperse spatial distribution, affecting multiple federal states. A full trace back of implicated food items was not possible in three of these outbreaks. In two outbreaks, international trade in pigs appears to have played a role. To prevent further human disease from contaminated pork and pork products, an integrated programme for the reduction of Salmonella on all steps of the production chain is warranted. In addition, close collaboration between epidemiologists and microbiologists from both the human and the veterinary side should be further strengthened.