Outbreak of Salmonella Enteriditis Food Poisoning at a Dining Hall Facility

Abstract

Background: An outbreak of Salmonella enteriditis food poisoning having occurred at two banquet halls, affecting eight groups of guests, is described. This research was aimed at determining the food by means of which this illness was transmitted. Methods: An analysis was conducted of the food processing procedures subject to having caused the outbreak. The association of the foods with the illness was analyzed by means of a case and control design. The adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) and the 95% confidence intervals (CI95%) were calculated by logic regression. Results: The guests totalled 1,771 in number, being divided up into 13 groups for three days running. A total of 629 individuals (36%) were surveyed The probable cases totalled 250 in number, 61 confirmed by Salmonella enterica.The glazed biscuit (dessert with raw egg having undergone no heat processing) showed the highest adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR = 20.40; CI95%:7.52-55.30) and tested positive for Salmonella enterica of the enteritidis serotype. Conclusions: Epidemiological and laboratory evidence supports the glazed biscuit having been the contaminated food having caused the outbreak. The research stressed as contributing factors: the use of raw egg, the production of large quantities ahead of time, prior to the time at which the food item in question was to be eaten.