The Health Protection Agency with support from Health Protection Scotland is investigating an increase in cases of Salmonella Bareilly.
The Agency’s Centre for Infections (CFI) in Colindale has identified 58 cases of S. Bareilly, including 17 reported in the North West of England, since the beginning of August. The CFI normally sees around five cases in a typical month.
Health Protection Scotland is investigating 15 laboratory confirmed cases of S. Bareilly in the same period.
An Outbreak Control Group chaired by Dr. Joe Kearney, Director, HPA East of England, is investigating the national increase in cases.
Dr. Kearney said: “Outbreaks of Salmonella Bareilly are under investigation in North West England and Scotland and a greater than expected number of cases have been observed in England. We’re looking for possible links between the North West and Scottish outbreaks and attempting to find potential sources of the national increase. It’s an extensive exercise.”
Health Protection Units throughout England have been asked to collate information on S. Bareilly cases within their geographical areas. A team from the Agency is contacting people who contracted laboratory-confirmed S. Bareilly since the beginning of August and inviting them to complete a questionnaire.
Dr. Kearney said: “Salmonella infection can be debilitating, especially for young children and older people. It is important for anyone with symptoms to maintain their fluid levels and take the utmost care with hand-washing and hygiene generally.”
Source: Health Protection Agency