Background: Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Brandenburg (antigenic formula 4,[5],12:l,v:e,n,z15) is a serovar of the O:4 (B) serogroup. In New Zealand in 1996 S. Brandenburg emerged in the sheep populations causing a number of outbreaks. This serovar causes abortion in pregnant ewes and kills approx. the half of infected ewes. Also outbreaks in cattle have been reported in New Zealand. It is considered an occupational hazard, because farmers can acquire the disease by contact with infected animals.
Animal reservoir: Serovar Brandenburg is found in different animal species (turkey, cattle, and sheep). However, in New Zealand in predominantly found in sheep.
Geographical distribution: Serovar Brandenburg is reported among the 15th most common serovars in Europe, and it is endemic in animals (sheep and cattle) in New Zealand.
Outbreaks: Human outbreaks have occurred in different countries since 1963. Outbreaks in sheep in New Zealand are common since 1996. The outbreaks are characterized by abortion in ewes.
Year |
Location |
Associated source |
Number of cases |
2008 |
Italy |
Restaurant associated |
Approx. 200 |
2001 |
Japan |
Hospital associated |
- |
1992 |
Switzerland |
Not clear, multiple foods and animals were found positive |
Several outbreaks |
1963 |
England |
Pork products |
- |
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