US Outbreak of Human Salmonella Infections Associated With Aquatic Frogs, 2008–2011 Journal Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • ; OBJECTIVE:; Although amphibians are known Salmonella carriers, no such outbreaks have been reported. We investigated a nationwide outbreak of human Salmonella Typhimurium infections occurring predominantly among children from 2008 to 2011.; ; ; METHODS:; We conducted a matched case-control study. Cases were defined as persons with Salmonella Typhimurium infection yielding an isolate indistinguishable from the outbreak strain. Controls were persons with recent infection with Salmonella strains other than the outbreak strain and matched to cases by age and geography. Environmental samples were obtained from patients’ homes; traceback investigations were conducted.; ; ; RESULTS:; We identified 376 cases from 44 states from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2011; 29% (56/193) of patients were hospitalized and none died. Median patient age was 5 years (range <1–86 years); 69% were children <10 years old (253/367). Among 114 patients interviewed, 69 (61%) reported frog exposure. Of patients who knew frog type, 79% (44/56) reported African dwarf frogs (ADF), a type of aquatic frog. Among 18 cases and 29 controls, illness was significantly associated with frog exposure (67% cases versus 3% controls, matched odds ratio 12.4, 95% confidence interval 1.9–infinity). Environmental samples from aquariums containing ADFs in 8 patients’ homes, 2 ADF distributors, and a day care center yielded isolates indistinguishable from the outbreak strain. Traceback investigations of ADFs from patient purchases converged to a common ADF breeding facility. Environmental samples from the breeding facility yielded the outbreak strain.; ; ; CONCLUSIONS:; ADFs were the source of this nationwide pediatric predominant outbreak. Pediatricians should routinely inquire about pet ownership and advise families about illness risks associated with animals.;

publication date

  • April 1, 2013

has restriction

  • bronze

Date in CU Experts

  • July 22, 2019 2:33 AM

Full Author List

  • Mettee Zarecki SL; Bennett SD; Hall J; Yaeger J; Lujan K; MPH RN; Adams-Cameron M; Winpisinger Quinn K; Brenden R; Biggerstaff G

author count

  • 16

Other Profiles

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0031-4005

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1098-4275

Additional Document Info

start page

  • 724

end page

  • 731

volume

  • 131

issue

  • 4