Outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis B in a family in southern Taiwan

Background and purpose: This study describes a Salmonella outbreak in a 9-member family in Southern Taiwan, and emphasizes the risk of Salmonella infection in extreme age. Methods: Salmonella infection was identified by blood culture, stool swab, and Widal test. A questionnaire was designed for the family to ascertain the underlying disease, symptoms, and history of untreated water and food exposure. Results: Of 9 members in the family, 4 had symptoms of fever, abdominal pain, and watery diarrhea. There was a relationship between Salmonella infection and age, and associated symptoms included fever, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weakness. Conclusion: Salmonella infection tends to occur more frequently in very young or very old people, especially elderly patients with chronic pre-existing comorbidities. Therefore, age is a significant risk factor for this symptomatic disease.