A study of salmonella carriage among asymptomatic food-handlers in southern Ethiopia

Background: Salmonella is the most frequently reported cause of food borne illness in Ethiopia. Objective: The aim of this study was to screen food handlers in the Dilla area of Southern Ethiopia and to assess the scale of carriage of Salmonella species and to offer prophylaxis followed by re-testing and advice on personal and food hygiene as appropriate. Method: Stool samples were collected from a total of 107 food handlers from various establishments in the area. Enrichment culture using Selenite broth and sub-culture on to Deoxycholate Citrate agar was used followed by identification to genus level by use of a commercially available biochemical kit and polyvalent antisera. Result: Salmonella was isolated from one food handler only and this person could not be traced having left her employment and not having left a forwarding address. Conclusion: As food poisoning is a main issue in Ethiopia further epidemiological research, to monitor those found to be infected is mandatory.