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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
09:01
Chronic Salmonella Infected Mouse Model
Published on: May 31, 2010
Enteritis due to Salmonella panama from infected ham
The Journal of Hygiene
|March 1, 1972
Summary
A Salmonella Panama outbreak linked to baked ham was traced to a factory. Infected employees and contaminated ham were identified, but the ultimate source of the Salmonella Panama remained unknown.
Area of Science:
- Foodborne illness investigations
- Microbiology
- Public health
Background:
- Sporadic cases of enteritis caused by Salmonella Panama were reported.
- Baked ham from a specific supplier was identified as a potential source of infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the source and extent of a Salmonella Panama outbreak.
- To identify control measures for preventing further spread of the infection.
Main Methods:
- Environmental sampling of factory surfaces and sewers.
- Microbiological examination of employee stool samples and family contacts.
- Testing of ham products, pig food, and pigs at slaughter.
Main Results:
- Salmonella Panama was isolated from factory sewers and subsequently from infected employees and contaminated ham products.
- A significant number of asymptomatic carriers were identified among employees and their family contacts.
- Trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole treatment showed no effect on the carrier state.
Conclusions:
- Contaminated baked ham was a significant vehicle for Salmonella Panama transmission.
- Asymptomatic carriers played a role in the spread of the infection.
- The initial source of Salmonella Panama contamination at the factory could not be determined.
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