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
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
Number hospitalized:7

Sources & documents

Report / reference links