Outbreak of Salmonella from Raw Tomatoes
Author Information
Author(s): Kate Cummings, Elizabeth Barrett, Janet C. Mohle-Boetani, John T. Brooks, Jeff Farrar, Travis Hunt, Anthony Fiore, Ken Komatsu, S. Benson Werner, Laurece Slutsker
Primary Institution: California Department of Health Services
Hypothesis
Is there a link between raw tomatoes and the outbreak of Salmonella enterica serotype Baildon?
Conclusion
The outbreak was linked to the consumption of raw tomatoes, with strong associations found in multiple case-control studies.
Supporting Evidence
- 86 cases of salmonellosis were identified across eight states.
- 87% of illnesses began during a 3-week period.
- Raw tomatoes were strongly associated with illness in case-control studies.
Takeaway
Eating raw tomatoes made many people sick, and we need to be careful about how we wash and handle them.
Methodology
Case-control studies were conducted in four states to compare patients with controls regarding food consumption prior to illness.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in control selection and self-reporting of food consumption.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported food consumption, which may be subject to recall bias.
Participant Demographics
Patients were from eight states, with a median age of 35 years, and included a mix of genders.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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