1996 Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Meleagridis Infections Linked to Sprouts
Sprouts from a northern California sprouter were implicated in an outbreak of Salmonella Meleagridis. This same sprouter was associated with a simultaneous outbreak of Salmonella Montevideo infections involving its alfalfa sprouts. The outbreak strain of Salmonella Meleagridis was isolated from a consumer sample of leftover alfalfa sprouts and from alfalfa, clover, and alfalfa-clover mixed sprouts collected directly from the sprout grower. The sprout grower used soil and did not disinfect the seeds prior to sprouting. The sprouter had recently begun periodic laboratory testing of sprouts. Prior to this outbreak, the laboratory had reported the presence of Salmonella, but the sprouter took no action. The alfalfa seeds had been harvested from a farm in Southern California that had fertilized the plants with uncomposted chicken manure and watered the plants with nonpotable canal water. Animal fecal matter was present around these fields which was found to be contaminated with other strains of Salmonella.
Overview
| Outbreak began: | May 1996 |
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| Affected country: | US |
| States/territories: | CA |
| Pathogen: | Salmonella Meleagridis |
| Vehicle(s): | Sprouts |
| Location(s): | Retail |
| Molecular test results: | Not reported |
Health impact
| Total ill: | 75 |
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| Number hospitalized: | 7 |
Sources & documents
| Report / reference links | ||
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