Salmonella Outbreak In Dublin: Cattle-Borne Superbug Found In Milk, Cheese, And Beef Poses Risk To Humans

Researchers examined 2,150 Salmonella Dublin strains from cattle, humans and the environment, and discovered that they were all genetically identical, which makes it easier for the bacteria to spread between species.

A cattle-borne superbug, namely Salmonella Dublin, which is often found in cows, has been reported to become more antibiotic-resistant, posing a threat to humans. Researchers from Penn State University warn that the infection is spreading from dairy products such as milk, cheese, and beef, and may become untreatable soon.

2,150 Salmonella Dublin Strains Were Examined

The study, which was published on August 19 in Applied and Environmental Microbiology, further revealed the findings of examining 2,150 Salmonella Dublin strains from cattle, humans and the environment, in which they discovered that they were all genetically identical, which makes it easier for the bacteria to spread between species.

Erika Ganda, Associate Professor of Food Animal Microbiomes in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, says, "That's important, because it shows that Salmonella Dublin is highly connected across humans, animals and the environment so efforts to control it need to consider all three. This study's findings provide detailed genetic evidence that can help guide surveillance tracking the bacteria, intervention strategies such as limiting antibiotic use in livestock and public health policies."

What Is Salmonella Dublin?

Salmonella Dublin is a strain of Salmonella bacteria typically found in cattle. "As a zoonotic pathogen, S. Dublin is capable of infecting humans and other animals. Many S. Dublin outbreaks have been foodborne, traced to cattle-derived products such as raw milk, soft cheeses, and contaminated beef," the study explains.

"However, one study reported increased Salmonella Dublin infection risk through contact with cattle, implicating S. Dublin as an occupational hazard for individuals working with cattle, such as veterinarians and producers."

Risks Of Salmonella Dublin

The infection can cause serious illness or death among cows, meanwhile affecting humans with severe blood infections among people, especially among people who come into direct contact with farm animals. The latest study found that cow strains of Salmonella Dublin have the highest levels of antibiotic resistance, especially to medications used for treating illnesses such as tetracycline and cephalosporins.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), antibiotic-resistant infections such as Salmonella Dublin cause more than 2.8 million illnesses and 35,000 deaths in the United States. The beef and dairy producers are at a higher risk of Salmonella Dublin, which has a higher chance of becoming a public health problem.

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