Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Salmonella infection risk from splash exposure during cow necropsy
By Bemis, David A et al.·Published in Foodborne pathogens and disease·2007·Department of Comparative Medicine, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Salmonella transmission through splash exposure during a bovine necropsy.
Plain-English summary
In a study involving two adult cows and a veterinary pathologist, Salmonella Typhimurium, a type of bacteria that can cause illness, was found in both the cows and the veterinarian after a necropsy (an examination after death) of one of the cows. The bacteria from the cows and the veterinarian were very similar, suggesting that the infection likely spread through splashes during the procedure. This highlights the importance for veterinary clinics and similar workplaces to have specific plans in place to prevent infections and to consider using facial protection during procedures that could create splashes or aerosols. The study emphasizes the need for better safety measures in veterinary practices to protect both animals and humans.
Abstract
Salmonella Typhimurium was isolated from two adult cows and a veterinary pathologist who performed a necropsy examination on one of the cows. The isolates had indistinguishable phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. A splash exposure was the suspected means of transmission of the human infection. Veterinary practices and other at-risk occupations should establish site-specific infection control plans and review recommendations for use of facial protection measures during procedures that may produce splashes or aerosols.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17883322/