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Moose soup shigellosis in Alaska
1Epidemic Intelligence Service, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.
The Western Journal of Medicine
|May 1, 1994
Summary
A community gathering in Alaska led to a gastroenteritis outbreak caused by contaminated moose soup. Shigella sonnei was identified, highlighting risks of improper food preparation and storage at public events.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Foodborne Illness
- Public Health
Background:
- An outbreak of gastroenteritis occurred in Galena, Alaska, following a community gathering in September 1991.
- Gastroenteritis cases were defined by specific gastrointestinal symptoms within a week of the event.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of the gastroenteritis outbreak in Galena, Alaska.
- To identify the specific food vehicle responsible for the outbreak.
Main Methods:
- An epidemiologic investigation was conducted, defining cases and controls.
- Case-patients and controls were interviewed regarding food consumption at the gathering.
- Laboratory confirmation of Shigella sonnei was performed on case-patients.
Main Results:
- Of 25 case-patients, 23 attended the gathering. Moose soup was significantly associated with illness (17/19 cases vs. 11/22 controls).
- Shigella sonnei was confirmed in 10 case-patients. Improperly prepared or stored moose soup was identified as the likely source.
- Five women who prepared the soup had household members ill before or during preparation.
Conclusions:
- Contaminated moose soup at a community gathering caused an outbreak of shigellosis.
- The investigation underscores the public health risks associated with improper food handling and storage at communal events.
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