30 January 2007

Auckland Regional Public Health Service
Food Handler Typhoid Tests Negative

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) continues to investigate the Typhoid fever cases in South Auckland. All 26 food handlers from four South Auckland food premises have now been cleared on the infection and eliminated from our investigations

Dr Greg Simmons, medical officer of health at ARPHS, says there is no microbiological evidence to suggest a link between the food premises investigated and illness among the cases. However, the investigation continues to keep an open mind on the likely source of infection and that direct person-to-person transmission of the typhoid germ has not been excluded.

“The results of genetic testing of the strains of typhoid germs causing illness in cases reported since November 2006 will allow us to confirm links between them and exclude others from the investigation. Results are expected later this week,” he says.

Dr Simmons asks that members of the public continue to practise the 4C’s of food safety (Clean, Cook, Cover, Chill) and be extra vigilant with hand hygiene – 20 seconds to wash using soap and running water and 20 seconds to dry on a clean dry towel as essential precautions against contracting and spreading gastroenteric infections.

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service will continue to investigate and provide further information when it becomes available.

For further information contact:

Dr Greg Simmons
Medical Officer of Health
Auckland Regional Public Health Service
Phone: 09 623 4600

Ends

Fleur King
External Communications Manager
Auckland District Health Board
Mobile: 021 804 122