On July 19, 2017, the CDC posted the findings from an investigation into a multistate outbreak of Salmonella typhimurium infections linked to various clinical, commercial, and college and university teaching microbiology laboratories. The strain of Salmonella typhimurium causing illness in this outbreak is closely related genetically to a strain from outbreaks in 2014 and 2011, both of which were linked to microbiology laboratories. They have asked we share this information across our campus.
- Case count: 24
- Hospitalizations: 6
- Deaths: 0
States affected: California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, and Washington
Based on the available information, illnesses started on dates ranging from March 17, 2017 to June 22, 2017 and those affected ranged in age from less than one year to 57 years, with a median age of 24.
Laboratory-associated salmonellosis continues to be a public health problem. This outbreak highlights the potential risk of Salmonella infection associated with working in microbiology laboratories and is a reminder that bacteria used in these laboratories can cause illness in those who work with them. Others who live in their households can also get sick, even if the household member never visited the laboratory.
For more information on this outbreak, see the CDC Investigation Notice and review the Advice to Students & Employees in Microbiology Laboratories.