Background: Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Virchow (antigenic formula 6,7,14:r:1,2 ) is a serovar of the O:7 (C1) serogroup. S. Virchow is a serovar adapted to poultry, but also isolated from foodborne outbreaks not directly traced back to chicken products.  A 2010 report from Switzerland reported that S. Virchow was one of the 5 most common Salmonella serovars in Europe, with reports of 3rd-generation cephalosporin- and fluoroquinolone-resistance.  Most often, S. Virchow infection causes gastrointestinal illness, but a 1984 report from Essex, England identified septicemic patients who suffered from neurological symptoms. The clone corresponding to the 2017 multi-country outbreak has been circulating in the EU poultry meat production chain at least in France, Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands. 

Animal reservoir:  Serovar Virchow is associated with poultry, but dog-to-human transmission has been reported.

Geographical distribution: Serovar Virchow has been reported in North America, Japan and Europe.

Outbreaks:  Outbreaks have been associated with S. Virchow.  

YearLocationAssociated sourceNumber of cases
2012US - Washingtonundetermined43 confirmed
2016US - multistateorganic meal & shake powder33
2017Multiple countriesKebab meat210*

*A total of 210 cases have been reported from the following countries: Denmark (2), France (111), Germany (26), Ireland (4), the Netherlands (34), the UK (32), and the US (1). 

Recalls:  Recalls have been associated with S. Virchow.

YearLocationRecalled ProductType
2016US - multistateGarden of Life RAW (organic) Meal powdermeal replacement

Relevant links and references:

  1. http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/virchow-02-16/advice.html
  2. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jvms/62/7/62_7_767/_pdf
  3. http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2016/03/outbreak-grows-garden-of-life-renames-recalled-protein-powder/#.Vx5kyUY5X4Y
  4. https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/salmonella-virchow-st16-chicken-meat
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