Human Salmonella isolates, 2019 No.08, August

The number of isolates (n=101) confirmed this month showed an increase in comparison to the number of isolates confirmed in August 2018 (n=144). Salmonella Enteritidis phage type 8 (0.0% in August 2018 vs 8.9% in August 2019) was the most common serotype confirmed this month. Uncommon Salmonella serotypes confirmed this month are S. Goldcoast (2 human isolates since it was first confirmed in New Zealand in 1989) and S. Johannesburg (15 human isolates since it was first confirmed in New Zealand in 2005).

Increase in notifications of Salmonella Enteritidis phage type 8 (Source: EpiSurv 0930 hours 28 August 2019, Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS), Waikato Population Health Service)

• In the past 5 surveillance weeks (20 July to 23 August 2019) there have been 11 cases (3 overseas acquired) of Salmonella Enteritidis phage type 8 notified to EpiSurv. Typically 1-6 cases are notified annually, with the majority overseas acquired.

• For the 8 local acquired cases:

o Age ranged from 17 to 80 years. 5 have been hospitalised.

o 7 were notified in the Auckland region and 6 of these have been linked to an outbreak involving a common event. A foodborne source is suspected but has not been confirmed. One case reported to Waikato DHB is being followed up to determine if there is a link with Auckland.