2015 Outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup Infections, Connecticut

In April 2015 the Connecticut Department of Public Health investigated an outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup infections linked to food served at a common food service establishment. A total of 14 cases were identified - 10 confirmed cases and 4 probable. Among the 10 confirmed cases, 7 reported eating at the restaurant. Exposure dates ranged from April 11-17, 2015. Twelve patients sought medical care. Four were hospitalized. No deaths were reported. All cases reported eating salads and/or sandwiches that contained lettuce and tomatoes. Stool specimens were collected from 30 of 31 facility food handlers. Five were positive for the outbreak strain of S. Braenderup. All environmental swabs and foods collected for testing were negative. Several factors may have contributed to the outbreak. The food expediter and food servers were observed using bare hands while cutting bread. Other observations of concern included dirty handles on a refrigerator, improper concentration of prepared sanitizer and the absence of produce washing.

Overview

Outbreak began:April 2015
Affected country:US
States/territories:CT
Pathogen:Salmonella Braenderup
Vehicle(s):Produce
Location(s):Restaurant
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:14
Number hospitalized:4

Sources & documents

Outbreak documents