All had eaten the dessert tiramisu during a 5-day period. Two batches of tiramisu containing raw shell egg were implicated, but neither was available for microbiologic examination. Kitchen inspection indicated that the second batch of tiramisu was probably cross-contaminated when the same whisks and mixing bowls used to make the first batch were reused. PT6 is a hitherto uncommon phage type in the United Kingdom. In Cardiff, one case not associated with foreign travel was reported in 1994 and in 1995, and two in 1996.
Most cases appear sporadic and acquired within the United Kingdom.
Eating egg sandwiches served at a buffet meal was strongly statistically associated with illness, and S. Enteritidis PT6 was isolated from several environmental samples from the kitchen where the food had been prepared. However, the investigation did not show whether or not shell eggs used in the sandwiches were the original source or had been cross-contaminated. Click here to view enlarged image Figure. Salmonella isolates reported in Wales by serotype and phage type, 1995-1997. Although the evidence is circumstantial, our reports suggest a possible link between S. Enteritidis PT6 and eggs.