Human Salmonella isolates, 2017 No.1, January

The number of isolates (n=121) confirmed this month showed a decrease in comparison to the number of isolates confirmed in January 2016 (n=128). Salmonella Typhimurium phage type 56 variant (9.1% in January 2017 vs 6.25% in January 2016) was the most common serotype confirmed this month. Uncommon serotypes confirmed this month included Salmonella Enteritidis phage type 15 (3 human cases since it was first confirmed in New Zealand in 2008). Salmonella Kirkee and Salmonella Lawndale were confirmed for the first time in New Zealand this month; no overseas travel reported.