1985 Salmonella Heidelberg Linked to Consumption of Eggs at a Convention, New Mexico

The October 7 breakfast at a convention was associated with an outbreak of Salmonella Heidelberg. The only food significantly associated with illness was eggs. The eggs that were served at the meal were not available for culture. Other eggs from the same distributor were culture-negative for Salmonella. The eggs had been cracked and stored in large containers in the walk-in refrigerator overnight. They were cooked in batches in a steamer the following morning. Attendees commented that the eggs seemed runny. Staff who had eaten the eggs had also become ill. Some were confirmed to be infected with Salmonella.

Overview

Outbreak began:October 1985
Affected country:US
States/territories:NM
Pathogen:Salmonella Heidelberg
Vehicle(s):Eggs
Location(s):Convention Center
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:91
Number hospitalized:3

Sources & documents

Report / reference links