In June 2011, two patients with laboratory-confirmed infections with Salmonella Newport pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern NEW17 (Minnesota designation) were identified through routine surveillance. Interviews with the patients revealed that both had attended a birthday party held on June 5.

Five birthday party attendees were interviewed. In addition to the two confirmed cases, one probable case was identified. Three additional party attendees were lost to follow-up. One case was hospitalized. No one died.

The small number of cases and controls precluded a meaningful case-control study. The meal consisted of fried and grilled chicken, coleslaw, and potato salad purchased from a restaurant, salami, sliced cheddar cheese, crackers, ice cream, birthday cake, and cupcakes. Some of the food was also served at a church group gathering the following evening. All of the interviewed party attendees also attended the church event.

The specific vehicle of transmission could not be identified because sufficient number of subjects could not be reached to conduct a full investigation.