Epidemiological investigation of a food-borne gastroenteritis outbreak caused by Norwalk-like virus in 30 day-care centres

Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
H GötzK Ekdahl

Abstract

In March 1999, an outbreak of gastroenteritis occurred affecting 30 day-care centres served by the same caterer. A retrospective cohort study was performed in 13 randomly selected day-care centres to determine the source and mode of transmission. Electron microscopy and PCR were used to verify the diagnosis. The overall attack rate (AR) was 37% (195/524): 30% in children and 62% in adults. Modified by the age of the patient, eating pumpkin salad served on 1 March was associated with becoming an early case (odds ratio = 3.9; 95% confidence interval 1.8-8.8). No significant association was found between food consumption and becoming a late case. The primary food-borne AR was 27% and the secondary AR was 14%. The same genotype of Norwalk-like virus was found in 5 cases and in 1 ill and 1 asymptomatic food-handler. Contamination by 1 of the food-handlers seems the most likely route of spread of the virus and underlines the importance of strict hygienic routines.

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Citations

Sep 6, 2003·Applied and Environmental Microbiology·Sandhya U ParshionikarRichard Harris
Apr 29, 2011·Epidemiology and Infection·E Alfano-SobseyS L Ledford
Jun 4, 2005·The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·Elmira T IsakbaevaRoger I Glass
Jan 1, 2009·Emerging Infectious Diseases·Linda P B VerhoefUNKNOWN Foodborne Viruses in Europe Network
Jun 2, 2009·Epidemiology and Infection·K LederD Wain
Jul 19, 2005·Emerging Infectious Diseases·Sharon PerryJulie Parsonnet
Jun 11, 2005·American Journal of Infection Control·Michael T Brady

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