The National Institute of Public Health has investigated a national outbreak with Salmonella Enteritidis infection. So far, 13 confirmed cases of infection have been found over 3 years (2019-2021), and the last time in a sample taken in September 2021.
The samples are completely genome-sequenced and show the same genotype. The same genotype of S. Enteritidis has also been found in a sample from a snake that the Veterinary Institute has analyzed.
Those who have snakes, or other reptiles as a hobby or pet, should take extra precautions and always wash their hands after handling and feeding the animals to avoid getting sick with salmonellosis.
The National Institute of Public Health has so far interviewed 12 of the 13 people who were infected with Salmonella and eight of these have had either direct or indirect contact with snakes, while four of them have not had contact with snakes / reptiles.
Epidemiological investigations and whole genome sequencing have confirmed the connection between the Salmonella outbreak in humans and contact with reptiles, says senior adviser Heidi Lange at the National Institute of Public Health.
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