Dramatic decrease in the incidence of Salmonella serotype Enteritidis infections in 5 FoodNet sites: 1996-1999

Clin Infect Dis. 2004 Apr 15:38 Suppl 3:S135-41. doi: 10.1086/381579.

Abstract

Salmonella serotype Enteritidis (SE) emerged as the most common Salmonella serotype among infected persons in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s, with infections reaching a peak in 1995. During the past decade, farm-to-table control measures have been instituted in the United States, particularly in regions with the highest incidence of SE infection. We report trends in the incidence of SE in the 5 original surveillance areas of the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network during 1996-1999: Minnesota, Oregon, and selected counties in California, Connecticut, and Georgia. Overall, the incidence of SE decreased 46% from 1996 to 1999. The greatest decrease was in Connecticut (71%), followed by northern California (50%), Minnesota (46%), and Oregon (13%). Although SE infection remains an important public health concern, there has been a remarkable decrease in its incidence. This decrease may be a result of targeted interventions, including on-farm control measures, refrigeration, and education efforts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Information Services
  • Male
  • Salmonella Food Poisoning / epidemiology
  • Salmonella Infections / epidemiology*
  • Salmonella enteritidis / classification*
  • Serotyping
  • United States / epidemiology