Concurrent outbreaks of Salmonella Typhimurium in South Australia

Abstract

The Communicable Disease Control Branch of the South Australian Health Commission received 45 laboratory  notifications of Salmonella between 23 December 1996 and 17 January 1997. A rapid screening test, undertaken  by the Institute of Medical and Veterinary Sciences, Adelaide, was the first indication that this was more than   one outbreak, prompting the establishment of separate investigations. Three Salmonella Typhimurium (S.  Typhimurium) phage types were subsequently identified. Investigations are continuing into an outbreak of S.   Typhimurium phage type (PT) 64, while investigations failed to identify any association between four cases of  PT 44. As of 12 February 1997, 71 notifications had been confirmed as S. Typhimurium PT 135. Epidemiological  investigations found this outbreak was associated with consumption of bread rolls with a meat filling  distributed through local Asian grocery stores from a home-based manufacturer. The product was voluntarily  withdrawn and there have been no new cases of PT 135. Comm Dis Intell 1997;21:61-62.