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Chaos under canvas: a Salmonella enteritidis PT 6B outbreak
R F Brugha1, A J Howard, G R Thomas
1CDSC (Welsh Unit), Roath, Cardiff, Wales.
Epidemiology and Infection
|December 1, 1995
Summary
A Salmonella enteritidis PT 6B outbreak sickened 46 campers, with a lemon meringue pie identified as the likely cause. Improper egg storage and preparation significantly contributed to this food poisoning incident.
Area of Science:
- Foodborne illness
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Salmonella enteritidis PT 6B is a recently described phage type.
- Food poisoning outbreaks pose significant public health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis PT 6B food poisoning.
- To identify the source and contributing factors of the outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological investigation of a camping group.
- Identification of the vehicle of infection.
Main Results:
- 46 of 49 campers fell ill, with 33 hospitalized.
- A lemon meringue pie was identified as the likely source of infection.
- Improper storage of fresh shell eggs at ambient temperature was a key factor.
Conclusions:
- Contaminated eggs and inadequate food preparation/storage led to the outbreak.
- Campers are at risk and should use cold boxes for eggs and avoid undercooked egg products.
- This is the first reported outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis PT 6B food poisoning.