Salmonellae in the environment.

Salmonellae are part of the bacterial flora normally found in Man and animals, although the frequency of occurrence is variable, reflecting the general level of Salmonella in food, water and the environment. They are widely disseminated into environments which have been disturbed by human activities. Wildlife may harbour the organisms but do not appear to be a major conduit by which the organisms enter the human and animal food chain. In areas associated with Man, salmonellae in wild animals and birds reflect the serovars disseminated into the environment. Seasonal changes in infection occur, and the capacity of the organisms to survive in nature varies. Water plays an important role in the spread of the organisms to Man and animals. Control of salmonellae must start with a significant decrease in the number of organisms which are discharged into the environment.