An outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis phage type 19 infection associated with cockles.

An outbreak of infection with Salmonella enteritidis was detected because some of the cases lived near each other. Swift investigation identified cockles as the vehicle of infection. The cockles had been gathered and cooked by a member of the public. Phage typing of the S. enteritidis revealed phage type 19, which is rarely seen in the United Kingdom. The outbreak illustrates the need for care in handling and preparation of shellfish for human consumption. Catering establishments should be wary when offered foodstuffs from unfamiliar suppliers.