Salmonella Newport is the tenth most common salmonella serotype reported among salmonellaosis cases in Ireland, with on average 6 cases reported per annum.
In January 2012, a cluster of four cases S, Newport were identified by the National Salmonella Laboratory.
Follow-up investigation by the Department of Public Health established that two cases were in adults and two in children, with three occurring in the HSE-Midlands and one in the HSE-East. One case was a symptomatic, with the onset dates for the remaining three cases being between the 1st January and the 3rd of January 2012.
There have been many cases of S.Newport in England, Wales, Scotland and Germany during December 2011 and January 2012. Epidemiological investigations so far have indicated a potential link with watermelon consumption. Among the four Irish cases three of the cases reported water melon consumption during their incubation periods.
The Food Safety Authority is continuing their investigations into this incident, all indications suggest however that the contaminated product is no longer on the market.
Speaking today about the latest food warning Liam Moloney Product Liability Solicitor said to day “any consumer who has consumed water melons and has contracted this type of salmonella should immediately advise the Health Protection Surveillance Centre in order that any further potential cases might be identified.’’
