During March and April 2024, the Statens Serum Institut registered 12 cases of Salmonella Typhimurium. The Statens Serum Institut, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration and the Norwegian Food Institute DTU are investigating the disease outbreak.
The investigation of the outbreak
The outbreak is handled by the Central Outbreak Group, which consists of SSI, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration and the DTU Food Institute. SSI stands for whole-genome sequencing of isolates from the patients and patient interviews with a view to identifying a possible source of infection.
The outbreak strain
The bacterium is of the type Salmonella Typhimurium. By whole-genome sequencing of the bacteria that were isolated from the patients, it was seen that they were very closely related and all belonged to sequence type 19.
General about salmonella infection
Salmonella is found in animals and can infect humans through food contaminated with the bacteria. Salmonella is a frequent and well-known cause of bacterial intestinal infections in Denmark. There are more than 2,500 different types of salmonella.
Incubation period
The time that passes from being infected to getting symptoms varies from 6-72 hours. Usually 12-36 hours before symptoms appear.
Symptoms
Infection with salmonella typically causes general malaise, diarrhoea, stomach ache, possibly nausea, vomiting and/or fever. The infection is often accompanied by joint pain, muscle pain and headache. Plenty of fluids are important to prevent and treat dehydration from diarrhea and vomiting. In the event of severe diarrheal disease, a doctor should be consulted.
Read more
Read more about salmonella infection .
FoodWorld 