Associations between climatic parameters and the human salmonellosis in Yazd province, Iran

Salmonella is one of the most common causes of foodborne disease outbreaks in developing countries. Climatic factors such as temperature, rainfall, and relative humidity can directly increase the growth and spread of these pathogens. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate long-term temporal trends and seasonal patterns of Salmonella infections as well as evaluating the effects of demographic and climatic factors on the infection incidence in Yazd province, Iran during 2012-2015. The incidence of Salmonella infections was highest among patients with the age group of ≤5 years and peaked in summer, especially during June. Contrary to expectations, no significant associations were seen between the average monthly temperature, rainfall or humidity and incidence rate (IR) of salmonellosis. Interestingly, atmospheric dust hovering was significantly associated with an increased risk of salmonellosis. Transmission pathways of Salmonella spp. in communities should be considered as a complex ecological process that animal reservoirs, socio-economic factors, and lifestyle behaviors need to be addressed in future studies.