Salmonellosis epidermic related to a caterer-delicatessen-restaurant.

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Abstract
A common-source epidemic primarily due to Salmonella meleagridis occurred in the Washington, D. C, metropolitan area during May and June, 1965. Sporadic cases related to one delicatessen occurred from May 10 until multiple simultaneous outbreaks occurred on June 5 and 6. Investigators interviewed 431 people who had attended 9 separate parties on June 5 and 6; 198 of these reported illness characterized by moderately severe diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and low-grade fever. Salmonella meleagridis was recovered from 63 individuals who had attended 6 of the parties and from food served at 3 of the parties. In response to publicity, 142 people reported having had similar illnesses after eating at the delicatessen between June 4 and 7. Stool specimens from 19 of these were positive on culture for S. meleagridis. The organism was also isolated from foods submitted by 6 individuals. The delicatessen was closed temporarily during the investigation. S. meleagridis was recovered from food-processing equipment, many ready-to-eat foods, and 64 of 115 employees. While ample evidence of secondary spread was found, the primary source of contamination remains unknown. The establishment was reopened after extensive cleaning and remodeling, treatment of employees, and a special food-handling course. Periodic surveys through Dec, 1965, showed no recurrence of contamination, and no additional cases related to the establishment had been reported through June 30, 1966.