Cluster of psittacosis cases linked to the preparation of a wedding meal, Lot-et-Garonne, May 2013
Introduction and Objectives: In late May 2013, a hospital in Lot-et-Garonne reported four cases of acute respiratory infections to the Aquitaine Health Surveillance and Emergency Response Center. An investigation was conducted to characterize the outbreak, identify the source of infection, and contribute to control measures. In the context of emerging viruses, exposure to MERS-CoV and H7N9 was quickly ruled out in favor of a suspicion of psittacosis. Materials and Methods: A thorough descriptive investigation was conducted to confirm the diagnosis, identify exposure factors, and ensure active case finding. Veterinary and environmental investigations were carried out to identify potential sources of contamination. Results: A total of eight cases of psittacosis, including four confirmed by PCR by the CNR, were identified. These cases were identified among a group of 15 women—representing an attack rate of 47%—who had gutted approximately 100 chickens while preparing wedding meals in the days preceding the onset of symptoms. The presence of Chlamydia psittaci was confirmed in the batch of chickens in question. The genotype determined from human and veterinary samples was one typically detected in ducks, an avian species also present on the farm. Conclusion: The investigation concluded that this was an outbreak of clustered psittacosis cases resulting from close contact with infected chickens. This type of outbreak, which is relatively rare, underscores the need for vigilance in the context of emerging viruses and the importance of responsive collaboration among stakeholders to rapidly implement control measures. (R.A.)
Author(s): Meurice L, Servas V, Chossat I, Laroucau K, Royer H, de Barbeyrac B, Rolland P
Publishing year: 2014
Pages: p.87
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