Updated 2 February 2010

Multistate outbreak of Salmonella Montevideo infections in the United States: recall of Italian sausage products

Between 1 July 2009 and 31 January 2010, 203 cases of Salmonella serotype Montevideo have been reported across 42 states in the United States (US).  At least 40 individuals have been hospitalised [1]. No deaths have been reported [1, 2].

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is collaborating with public health officials, the US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the outbreak [1]. Epidemiologic investigations have suggested salami as a source of Salmonella, however, it is possible that more than one food product is causing illness and the investigation is ongoing [1].

The FSIS have announced a recall of ready-to-eat Italian sausage products manufactured by Daniele International, Rhode Island due to possible contamination. The company has also voluntarily recalled their black pepper products. These products were distributed to retail establishments nationwide, as well internationally. [3].

As of 31 January 2010, additional recalled products have been announced by FSIS [5].

Additional cases may be reported due to delays between infection and laboratory confirmation. Although implicated products have been recalled, they may still be in stores or in person’s homes. CDC and its public health partners are continuing the epidemiologic investigation to verify that the outbreak is controlled [4].

Salmonella infection

The signs and symptoms of Salmonella infection include diarrhoea, fever and abdominal cramps that usually begin 12 to 72 hours following consumption of contaminated food. Symptoms typically last four to seven days and most people make a full recovery without treatment. Infants, the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions are more likely to suffer complications including septicaemia. In cases of severe illness, antibiotic therapy can be necessary.

Advice for Travellers

Travellers should not eat recalled products, and should dispose of them. Consumers are advised to check the list of recalled products .

Travellers returning from the US who feel unwell as a result of eating recalled products should seek medical care and inform their health care provider of their recent travel and possible exposure.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Investigation Update: Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Montevideo Infections, 26 January 2010. [Accessed 29 January 2010], Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/montevideo/index.html

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Infections with the Outbreak Strain of Salmonella Montevideo, by Date of Illness Onset, 26 January 2010. [Accessed 29 January 2010], Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/montevideo/epi_curve.html

3. U.S Food and Drug Administration. Rhode Island Firm Recalls Italian Sausage Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination, 23 January 2010. [Accessed 29 January 2010], Available at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_006_2010_

Release/index.asp

4. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Salmonella Outbreak Investigations: Timeline for Reporting Cases. [Accessed 29 January 2010]. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/reportingtimeline.html

5.U.S Food and Drug Administration. Rhode Island Firm Expands Recall of Italian Sausage Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination, 31 January 2010. [Accessed 2 February 2010], Available at:

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_006_2010_

Expanded/index.asp

 

Links

NaTHNaC Health Information Sheet on Prevention of Food and Water Borne Diseases

Health Protection Agency: Salmonella – General Information

US Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)