Last data update: Oct 28, 2024. (Total: 48004 publications since 2009)
Records 1-30 (of 33 Records) |
Query Trace: Stroika S[original query] |
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Predicting food sources of Listeria monocytogenes based on genomic profiling using random forest model
Gu W , Cui Z , Stroika S , Carleton HA , Conrad A , Katz LS , Richardson LC , Hunter J , Click ES , Bruce BB . Foodborne Pathog Dis 2023 20 (12) 579-586 Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe foodborne illness, including miscarriage during pregnancy or death in newborn infants. When outbreaks of L. monocytogenes illness occur, it may be possible to determine the food source of the outbreak. However, most reported L. monocytogenes illnesses do not occur as part of a recognized outbreak and most of the time the food source of sporadic L. monocytogenes illness in people cannot be determined. In the United States, L. monocytogenes isolates from patients, foods, and environments are routinely sequenced and analyzed by whole genome multilocus sequence typing (wgMLST) for outbreak detection by PulseNet, the national molecular surveillance system for foodborne illnesses. We investigated whether machine learning approaches applied to wgMLST allele call data could assist in attribution analysis of food source of L. monocytogenes isolates. We compiled isolates with a known source from five food categories (dairy, fruit, meat, seafood, and vegetable) using the metadata of L. monocytogenes isolates in PulseNet, deduplicated closely genetically related isolates, and developed random forest models to predict the food sources of isolates. Prediction accuracy of the final model varied across the food categories; it was highest for meat (65%), followed by fruit (45%), vegetable (45%), dairy (44%), and seafood (37%); overall accuracy was 49%, compared with the naive prediction accuracy of 28%. Our results show that random forest can be used to capture genetically complex features of high-resolution wgMLST for attribution of isolates to their sources. |
Imported cholera cases, South Africa, 2023
Smith AM , Sekwadi P , Erasmus LK , Lee CC , Stroika SG , Ndzabandzaba S , Alex V , Nel J , Njamkepo E , Thomas J , Weill FX . Emerg Infect Dis 2023 29 (8) 1687-1690 Since February 2022, Malawi has experienced a cholera outbreak of >54,000 cases. We investigated 6 cases in South Africa and found that isolates linked to the outbreak were Vibrio cholerae O1 serotype Ogawa from seventh pandemic El Tor sublineage AFR15, indicating a new introduction of cholera into Africa from south Asia. |
Investigation of a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to frozen vegetables produced at individually quick-frozen vegetable manufacturing facilities
Madad A , Heiman Marshall K , Blessington T , Hardy C , Salter M , Basler C , Conrad A , Stroika S , Luo Y , Dwarka A , Gerhardt T , Rosa Y , Cibulskas K , Rosen HE , Adcock B , Kiang D , Hutton S , Parish M , Podoski B , Patel B , Viazis S . J Food Prot 2023 86 (8) 100117 In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state partners investigated nine Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to frozen vegetables. The investigation began with two environmental L. monocytogenes isolates recovered from Manufacturer A, primarily a processor of frozen onions, that were a match by whole genome sequencing (WGS) to eight clinical isolates and historical onion isolates with limited collection details. Epidemiologic information, product distribution, and laboratory evidence linked suspect food items, including products sourced from Manufacturer B, also a manufacturer of frozen vegetable/fruit products, with an additional illness. The environmental isolates were obtained during investigations at Manufacturers A and B. State and federal partners interviewed ill people, analyzed shopper card data, and collected household and retail samples. Nine ill persons between 2013 and 2016 were reported in four states. Of four ill people with information available, frozen vegetable consumption was reported by three, with shopper cards confirming purchases of Manufacturer B brands. Two identified outbreak strains of L. monocytogenes (Outbreak Strain 1 and Outbreak Strain 2) were a match to environmental isolates from Manufacturer A and/or isolates from frozen vegetables recovered from open and unopened product samples sourced from Manufacturer B; the investigation resulted in extensive voluntary recalls. The close genetic relationship between isolates helped investigators determine the source of the outbreak and take steps to protect public health. This is the first known multistate outbreak of listeriosis in the United States linked to frozen vegetables and highlights the significance of sampling and WGS analyses when there is limited epidemiologic information. Additionally, this investigation emphasizes the need for further research regarding food safety risks associated with frozen foods. |
Genome Sequences from a Reemergence of Vibrio cholerae in Haiti, 2022 Reveal Relatedness to Previously Circulating Strains.
Walters C , Chen J , Stroika S , Katz LS , Turnsek M , Compère V , Im MS , Gomez S , McCullough A , Landaverde C , Putney J , Caidi H , Folster J , Carleton HA , Boncy J , Lee CC . J Clin Microbiol 2023 61 (3) e0014223 After more than 3 years without a documented cholera case, the Republic of Haiti reported its first resurgent case on 30 September 2022 (1–3). As of 18 February 2023, more than 27,000 cholera cases have been hospitalized and 594 deaths confirmed from all 10 departments (4). Here, we describe Vibrio cholerae isolates first characterized by the Laboratoire National de Santé Publique (LNSP) and include both genotypic and phenotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis was compared with recently circulating cholera toxin-producing V. cholerae O1 in a maximum likelihood phylogeny. |
Listeria monocytogenes Illness and Deaths Associated With Ongoing Contamination of a Multi-Regional Brand of Ice Cream Products, United States, 2010-2015.
Conrad AR , Tubach S , Cantu V , Webb LM , Stroika S , Moris S , Davis M , Hunt DC , Bradley KK , Kucerova Z , Strain E , Doyle M , Fields A , Neil KP , Gould LH , Jackson KA , Wise ME , Griffin PM , Jackson BR . Clin Infect Dis 2022 76 (1) 89-95 BACKGROUND: Frozen foods have rarely been linked to Listeria monocytogenes illness. We describe an outbreak investigation prompted both by hospital clustering of illnesses and product testing. METHODS: We identified outbreak-associated listeriosis cases using whole-genome sequencing (WGS), product testing results, and epidemiologic linkage to cases in the same Kansas hospital. We reviewed hospital medical and dietary records, product invoices, and molecular subtyping results. Federal and state officials tested product and environmental samples for L. monocytogenes. RESULTS: Kansas officials were investigating five cases of listeriosis at a single hospital when, simultaneously, unrelated sampling for a study in South Carolina identified L. monocytogenes in Company A ice cream products made in Texas. Isolates from four patients and Company A products were closely related by WGS, and the four patients with known exposures had consumed milkshakes made with Company A ice cream while hospitalized. Further testing identified L. monocytogenes in ice cream produced in a second Company A production facility in Oklahoma; these isolates were closely related by WGS to those from five patients in three other states. These ten illnesses, involving three deaths, occurred from 2010 through 2015. Company A ultimately recalled all products. CONCLUSION: In this U.S. outbreak of listeriosis linked to a widely distributed brand of ice cream, WGS and product sampling helped link cases spanning five years to two production facilities, indicating longstanding contamination. Comprehensive sanitation controls and environmental and product testing for L. monocytogenes, with regulatory oversight, should be implemented for ice cream production. |
Short communication: Multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections retrospectively linked to unpasteurized milk using whole-genome sequencing.
Nichols M , Conrad A , Whitlock L , Stroika S , Strain E , Weltman A , Johnson L , DeMent J , Reporter R , Williams I . J Dairy Sci 2019 103 (1) 176-178 Unpasteurized milk can contain harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes. In 2016, the US Food and Drug Administration notified the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Atlanta, GA) that L. monocytogenes isolated from unpasteurized chocolate milk from a Pennsylvania dairy was closely related, by whole-genome sequencing, to L. monocytogenes isolates collected from blood specimens of 2 patients (in California and Florida) in 2014. The California and Florida patients consumed unpasteurized milk from the Pennsylvania dairy. Both were >65 yr old and were hospitalized in 2014; the Florida patient died. Isolates from the 2 patients had indistinguishable pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns and were closely related by whole-genome multilocus sequence typing analysis (by 2 alleles) to the isolate from unpasteurized chocolate milk produced by the Pennsylvania dairy in 2015. Together, epidemiologic and laboratory information indicated a common origin. This is the first multistate listeriosis outbreak linked to unpasteurized milk in the United States detected using whole-genome multilocus sequence analysis. |
Multistate Outbreak of Listeriosis Associated with Packaged Leafy Green Salads, United States and Canada, 2015-2016.
Self JL , Conrad A , Stroika S , Jackson A , Whitlock L , Jackson KA , Beal J , Wellman A , Fatica MK , Bidol S , Huth PP , Hamel M , Franklin K , Tschetter L , Kopko C , Kirsch P , Wise ME , Basler C . Emerg Infect Dis 2019 25 (8) 1461-1468 We investigated an outbreak of listeriosis detected by whole-genome multilocus sequence typing and associated with packaged leafy green salads. Nineteen cases were identified in the United States during July 5, 2015-January 31, 2016; isolates from case-patients were closely related (median difference 3 alleles, range 0-16 alleles). Of 16 case-patients interviewed, all reported salad consumption. Of 9 case-patients who recalled brand information, all reported brands processed at a common US facility. The Public Health Agency of Canada simultaneously investigated 14 cases of listeriosis associated with this outbreak. Isolates from the processing facility, packaged leafy green salads, and 9 case-patients from Canada were closely related to US clinical isolates (median difference 3 alleles, range 0-16 alleles). This investigation led to a recall of packaged leafy green salads made at the processing facility. Additional research is needed to identify best practices and effective policies to reduce the likelihood of Listeria monocytogenes contamination of fresh produce. |
Interpretation of Whole-Genome Sequencing for Enteric Disease Surveillance and Outbreak Investigation.
Besser JM , Carleton HA , Trees E , Stroika SG , Hise K , Wise M , Gerner-Smidt P . Foodborne Pathog Dis 2019 16 (7) 504-512 The routine use of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) as part of enteric disease surveillance is substantially enhancing our ability to detect and investigate outbreaks and to monitor disease trends. At the same time, it is revealing as never before the vast complexity of microbial and human interactions that contribute to outbreak ecology. Since WGS analysis is primarily used to characterize and compare microbial genomes with the goal of addressing epidemiological questions, it must be interpreted in an epidemiological context. In this article, we identify common challenges and pitfalls encountered when interpreting sequence data in an enteric disease surveillance and investigation context, and explain how to address them. |
An Overview of PulseNet USA Databases.
Tolar B , Joseph LA , Schroeder MN , Stroika S , Ribot EM , Hise KB , Gerner-Smidt P . Foodborne Pathog Dis 2019 16 (7) 457-462 PulseNet USA is the molecular surveillance network for foodborne disease in the United States. The network consists of state and local public health laboratories, as well as food regulatory agencies, that follow PulseNet's standardized protocols to perform pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) and analyze the results using standardized software. The raw sequences are uploaded to the GenomeTrakr or PulseNet bioprojects at the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The PFGE patterns and analyzed sequence data are uploaded in real time with associated demographic data to the PulseNet national databases managed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The PulseNet databases are organism specific and provide a central storage location for molecular and demographic data related to an isolate. Sequences are compared in the databases, thereby facilitating the rapid detection of clusters of foodborne diseases that may represent widespread outbreaks. WGS genotyping data, for example, antibiotic resistance and virulence profiles, are also uploaded in real time to the PulseNet databases to improve food safety surveillance activities. |
Pulsotype Diversity of Clostridium botulinum Strains Containing Serotypes A and/or B Genes.
Halpin JL , Joseph L , Dykes JK , McCroskey L , Smith E , Toney D , Stroika S , Hise K , Maslanka S , Luquez C . Foodborne Pathog Dis 2017 14 (9) 494-501 Clostridium botulinum strains are prevalent in the environment and produce a potent neurotoxin that causes botulism, a rare but serious paralytic disease. In 2010, a national PulseNet database was established to curate C. botulinum pulsotypes and facilitate epidemiological investigations, particularly for serotypes A and B strains frequently associated with botulism cases in the United States. Between 2010 and 2014 we performed pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) using a PulseNet protocol, uploaded the resulting PFGE patterns into a national database, and analyzed data according to PulseNet criteria (UPGMA clustering, Dice coefficient, 1.5% position tolerance, and 1.5% optimization). A retrospective data analysis was undertaken on 349 entries comprised of type A and B strains isolated from foodborne and infant cases to determine epidemiological relevance, resolution of the method, and the diversity of the database. Most studies to date on the pulsotype diversity of C. botulinum have encompassed very small sets of isolates; this study, with over 300 isolates, is more comprehensive than any published to date. Epidemiologically linked isolates had indistinguishable patterns, except in four instances and there were no obvious geographic trends noted. Simpson's Index of Diversity (D) has historically been used to demonstrate species diversity and abundance within a group, and is considered a standard descriptor for PFGE databases. Simpson's Index was calculated for each restriction endonuclease (SmaI, XhoI), the pattern combination SmaI-XhoI, as well as for each toxin serotype. The D values indicate that both enzymes provided better resolution for serotype B isolates than serotype A. XhoI as the secondary enzyme provided little additional discrimination for C. botulinum. SmaI patterns can be used to exclude unrelated isolates during a foodborne outbreak, but pulsotypes should always be considered concurrently with available epidemiological data. |
Multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to whole apples used in commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples: United States, 2014-2015.
Angelo KM , Conrad AR , Saupe A , Dragoo H , West N , Sorenson A , Barnes A , Doyle M , Beal J , Jackson KA , Stroika S , Tarr C , Kucerova Z , Lance S , Gould LH , Wise M , Jackson BR . Epidemiol Infect 2017 145 (5) 1-9 Whole apples have not been previously implicated in outbreaks of foodborne bacterial illness. We investigated a nationwide listeriosis outbreak associated with caramel apples. We defined an outbreak-associated case as an infection with one or both of two outbreak strains of Listeria monocytogenes highly related by whole-genome multilocus sequence typing (wgMLST) from 1 October 2014 to 1 February 2015. Single-interviewer open-ended interviews identified the source. Outbreak-associated cases were compared with non-outbreak-associated cases and traceback and environmental investigations were performed. We identified 35 outbreak-associated cases in 12 states; 34 (97%) were hospitalized and seven (20%) died. Outbreak-associated ill persons were more likely to have eaten commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples (odds ratio 326.7, 95% confidence interval 32.2-3314). Environmental samples from the grower's packing facility and distribution-chain whole apples yielded isolates highly related to outbreak isolates by wgMLST. This outbreak highlights the importance of minimizing produce contamination with L. monocytogenes. Investigators should perform single-interviewer open-ended interviews when a food is not readily identified. |
Whole genome-based population biology and epidemiological surveillance of Listeria monocytogenes.
Moura A , Criscuolo A , Pouseele H , Maury MM , Leclercq A , Tarr C , Bjorkman JT , Dallman T , Reimer A , Enouf V , Larsonneur E , Carleton H , Bracq-Dieye H , Katz LS , Jones L , Touchon M , Tourdjman M , Walker M , Stroika S , Cantinelli T , Chenal-Francisque V , Kucerova Z , Rocha EP , Nadon C , Grant K , Nielsen EM , Pot B , Gerner-Smidt P , Lecuit M , Brisse S . Nat Microbiol 2016 2 16185 Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) is a major human foodborne pathogen. Numerous Lm outbreaks have been reported worldwide and associated with a high case fatality rate, reinforcing the need for strongly coordinated surveillance and outbreak control. We developed a universally applicable genome-wide strain genotyping approach and investigated the population diversity of Lm using 1,696 isolates from diverse sources and geographical locations. We define, with unprecedented precision, the population structure of Lm, demonstrate the occurrence of international circulation of strains and reveal the extent of heterogeneity in virulence and stress resistance genomic features among clinical and food isolates. Using historical isolates, we show that the evolutionary rate of Lm from lineage I and lineage II is low ( approximately 2.5 x 10-7 substitutions per site per year, as inferred from the core genome) and that major sublineages (corresponding to so-called 'epidemic clones') are estimated to be at least 50-150 years old. This work demonstrates the urgent need to monitor Lm strains at the global level and provides the unified approach needed for global harmonization of Lm genome-based typing and population biology. |
Notes from the Field: Outbreak of Listeriosis Associated with Consumption of Packaged Salad - United States and Canada, 2015-2016.
Self JL , Conrad A , Stroika S , Jackson A , Burnworth L , Beal J , Wellman A , Jackson KA , Bidol S , Gerhardt T , Hamel M , Franklin K , Kopko C , Kirsch P , Wise ME , Basler C . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2016 65 (33) 879-881 In September 2015, PulseNet, the national molecular subtyping network for foodborne disease surveillance, identified a cluster of Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria) clinical isolates indistinguishable by two-enzyme pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern combination and highly related by whole-genome multilocus sequence typing (wgMLST). A case was defined as isolation of Listeria with the outbreak PFGE pattern and highly related by wgMLST with an isolation date on or after July 5, 2015, the isolate date of the earliest case in this cluster. |
Vibriosis, not cholera: toxigenic Vibrio cholerae non-O1, non-O139 infections in the United States, 1984-2014
Crowe SJ , Newton AE , Gould LH , Parsons MB , Stroika S , Bopp CA , Freeman M , Greene K , Mahon BE . Epidemiol Infect 2016 144 (15) 1-7 Toxigenic strains of Vibrio cholerae serogroups O1 and O139 have caused cholera epidemics, but other serogroups - such as O75 or O141 - can also produce cholera toxin and cause severe watery diarrhoea similar to cholera. We describe 31 years of surveillance for toxigenic non-O1, non-O139 infections in the United States and map these infections to the state where the exposure probably originated. While serogroups O75 and O141 are closely related pathogens, they differ in how and where they infect people. Oysters were the main vehicle for O75 infection. The vehicles for O141 infection include oysters, clams, and freshwater in lakes and rivers. The patients infected with serogroup O75 who had food traceback information available ate raw oysters from Florida. Patients infected with O141 ate oysters from Florida and clams from New Jersey, and those who only reported being exposed to freshwater were exposed in Arizona, Michigan, Missouri, and Texas. Improving the safety of oysters, specifically, should help prevent future illnesses from these toxigenic strains and similar pathogenic Vibrio species. Post-harvest processing of raw oysters, such as individual quick freezing, heat-cool pasteurization, and high hydrostatic pressurization, should be considered. |
Use of Whole Genome Sequencing and Patient Interviews To Link a Case of Sporadic Listeriosis to Consumption of Prepackaged Lettuce.
Jackson KA , Stroika S , Katz LS , Beal J , Brandt E , Nadon C , Reimer A , Major B , Conrad A , Tarr C , Jackson BR , Mody RK . J Food Prot 2016 79 (5) 806-809 We report on a case of listeriosis in a patient who probably consumed a prepackaged romaine lettuce-containing product recalled for Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Although definitive epidemiological information demonstrating exposure to the specific recalled product was lacking, the patient reported consumption of a prepackaged romaine lettuce-containing product of either the recalled brand or a different brand. A multinational investigation found that patient and food isolates from the recalled product were indistinguishable by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and were highly related by whole genome sequencing, differing by four alleles by whole genome multilocus sequence typing and by five high-quality single nucleotide polymorphisms, suggesting a common source. To our knowledge, this is the first time prepackaged lettuce has been identified as a likely source for listeriosis. This investigation highlights the power of whole genome sequencing, as well as the continued need for timely and thorough epidemiological exposure data to identify sources of foodborne infections. |
Implementation of Nationwide Real-time Whole-genome Sequencing to Enhance Listeriosis Outbreak Detection and Investigation.
Jackson BR , Tarr C , Strain E , Jackson KA , Conrad A , Carleton H , Katz LS , Stroika S , Gould LH , Mody RK , Silk BJ , Beal J , Chen Y , Timme R , Doyle M , Fields A , Wise M , Tillman G , Defibaugh-Chavez S , Kucerova Z , Sabol A , Roache K , Trees E , Simmons M , Wasilenko J , Kubota K , Pouseele H , Klimke W , Besser J , Brown E , Allard M , Gerner-Smidt P . Clin Infect Dis 2016 63 (3) 380-6 Listeria monocytogenes(Lm) causes severe foodborne illness (listeriosis). Previous molecular subtyping methods, such as pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), were critical in detecting outbreaks that led to food safety improvements and declining incidence, but PFGE provides limited genetic resolution. A multiagency collaboration began performing real-time, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) on all U.S.Lmisolates from patients, food, and the environment in September 2013, posting sequencing data into a public repository. Compared with the year before the project began, WGS, combined with epidemiologic and product trace-back data, detected more listeriosis clusters and solved more outbreaks (2 outbreaks in pre-WGS year, 5 in WGS year 1, and 9 in year 2). Whole-genome multilocus sequence typing and single nucleotide polymorphism analyses provided equivalent phylogenetic relationships relevant to investigations; results were most useful when interpreted in context of epidemiological data. WGS has transformed listeriosis outbreak surveillance and is being implemented for other foodborne pathogens. |
Two Listeria monocytogenes pseudo-outbreaks caused by contaminated laboratory culture media
Matanock A , Katz LS , Jackson KA , Kucerova Z , Conrad AR , Glover WA , Nguyen V , Mohr MC , Marsden-Haug N , Thompson D , Dunn JR , Stroika S , Melius B , Tarr C , Dietrich SE , Kao AS , Kornstein L , Li Z , Maroufi A , Marder EP , Meyer R , Perez-Osorio AC , Reddy V , Reporter R , Carleton H , Tweeten S , Waechter H , Yee LM , Wise ME , Davis K , Jackson B . J Clin Microbiol 2015 54 (3) 768-70 Listeriosis is a serious foodborne infection that disproportionately affects elderly adults, pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals. Diagnosis is made by culturing Listeria monocytogenes from sterile body fluids or products of conception. This report describes investigations of two listeriosis pseudo-outbreaks caused by contaminated laboratory media made from sheep blood. |
Notes from the field: listeriosis associated with stone fruit - United States, 2014
Jackson BR , Salter M , Tarr C , Conrad A , Harvey E , Steinbock L , Saupe A , Sorenson A , Katz L , Stroika S , Jackson KA , Carleton H , Kucerova Z , Melka D , Strain E , Parish M , Mody RK . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2015 64 (10) 282-3 On July 19, 2014, a packing company in California (company A) voluntarily recalled certain lots of stone fruits, including whole peaches, nectarines, plums, and pluots, because of concern about contamination with Listeria monocytogenes based on internal company testing. On July 31, the recall was expanded to cover all fruit packed at their facility during June 1-July 17. After the initial recall, clinicians, state and local health departments, CDC, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) received many inquiries about listeriosis from concerned consumers, many of whom had received automated telephone calls informing them that they had purchased recalled fruit. During July 19-31, the CDC Listeria website received >500,000 page views, more than seven times the views received during the previous 52 weeks. However, no molecular information from L. monocytogenes isolates was available to assess whether human illnesses might be linked to these products. |
Changing plasmid types responsible for extended-spectrum cephalosporin resistance in Escherichia coli O157:H7 in the USA, 1996-2009
Folster JP , Pecic G , Stroika S , Rickert R , Whichard JM . J Glob Antimicrob Resist 2014 2 (2) 87-91 Escherichia coli O157 is a major cause of food-borne illness. Plasmids are genetic elements that mobilise antimicrobial resistance determinants, including blaCMY beta-lactamases that confer resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs). ESCs are important for treating a variety of infections. IncA/C plasmids are found among diverse sources, including cattle, the principal source of E. coli O157 infections in humans. IncI1 plasmids are common among E. coli and Salmonella from poultry and other avian sources. To broaden our understanding of the reservoirs of blaCMY, the types of plasmids carrying blaCMY among E. coli O157 were determined. From 1996 to 2009, 3742 E. coli O157 isolates were tested. Eleven isolates (0.29%) were ceftriaxone-resistant and had a blaCMY-2-containing plasmid. All four isolates submitted before 2001 as well as a single 2001 isolate had bla CMY encoded on IncA/C plasmids, whilst all five isolates submitted after 2001 and a single 2001 isolate had blaCMY carried on IncI1 plasmids. The IncI1 plasmids were ST2, ST20 and ST23. We conclude that cephalosporin resistance among E. coli O157:H7 is due to plasmid-encoded blaCMY genes and that plasmid types appear to have shifted from IncA/C to IncI1. This shift suggests either a change in plasmid type among animal reservoirs or that the organism has expanded into avian reservoirs. More analysis of human, retail meat and food animal isolates is necessary to broaden our understanding of the antimicrobial resistance determinants of ESC resistance among E. coli O157. |
Campylobacter fetus subsp. testudinum subsp. nov., isolated from humans and reptiles.
Fitzgerald C , Tu ZC , Patrick M , Stiles T , Lawson AJ , Santovenia M , Gilbert MJ , van Bergen M , Joyce K , Pruckler J , Stroika S , Duim B , Miller WG , Loparev VL , Sinnige JC , Fields PI , Tauxe RV , Blaser MJ , Wagenaar JA . Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2014 64 2944-2948 A polyphasic study was undertaken to determine the taxonomic position of 13 Campylobacter fetus-like strains from humans (n=8) and reptiles (n=5). The results of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) and genomic data from sap analysis, 16S rRNA and hsp60 sequence comparison, pulsed- field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis, DNA-DNA hybridization and whole genome sequencing demonstrate that these strains are closely related to C. fetus but clearly differentiated from the present C. fetus subspecies. Therefore this unique cluster of 13 strains represents a novel subspecies within the species C. fetus, for which the name Campylobacter fetus subsp. testudinum subsp. nov. is proposed, with strain 03-427T (=ATCC BAA-2539T = LMG 27499T) as the type strain. Although this novel taxon cannot be differentiated from C. fetus subsp. fetus and C. fetus subsp. venerealis using conventional phenotypic tests, MALDI-TOF MS analysis revealed the presence of multiple phenotypic biomarkers which distinguish C. fetus subsp. testudinum from the present C. fetus subspecies. |
Cholera in the United States, 2001-2011: a reflection of patterns of global epidemiology and travel
Loharikar A , Newton AE , Stroika S , Freeman M , Greene KD , Parsons MB , Bopp C , Talkington D , Mintz ED , Mahon BE . Epidemiol Infect 2014 143 (4) 1-9 US cholera surveillance offers insight into global and domestic trends. Between 2001 and 2011, 111 cases were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cholera was associated with international travel in 90 (81%) patients and was domestically acquired in 20 (18%) patients; for one patient, information was not available. From January 2001 to October 2010, the 42 (47%) travel-associated cases were associated with travel to Asia. In October 2010, a cholera epidemic started in Haiti, soon spreading to the Dominican Republic (Hispaniola). From then to December 2011, 40 (83%) of the 48 travel-associated cases were associated with travel to Hispaniola. Of 20 patients who acquired cholera domestically, 17 (85%) reported seafood consumption; 10 (59%) ate seafood from the US Gulf Coast. In summary, an increase in travel-associated US cholera cases was associated with epidemic cholera in Hispaniola in 2010-2011. Travel to Asia and consumption of Gulf Coast seafood remained important sources of US cholera cases. |
Multilocus sequence typing confirms wild birds as the source of a Campylobacter outbreak associated with the consumption of raw peas.
Kwan PS , Xavier C , Santovenia M , Pruckler J , Stroika S , Joyce K , Gardner T , Fields PI , McLaughlin J , Tauxe RV , Fitzgerald C . Appl Environ Microbiol 2014 80 (15) 4540-6 From August to September 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assisted the Alaska Division of Public Health with an outbreak investigation of campylobacteriosis occurring among the residents of Southcentral Alaska. During the investigation, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) of Campylobacter jejuni isolates from human, raw pea and wild bird fecal samples confirmed the epidemiologic link between illness and the consumption of raw peas contaminated by Sandhill cranes from 15 of 43 epidemiologically-linked human isolates. However, an association between the remaining epidemiologically-linked human infections and the pea and wild bird isolates was not established. To better understand the molecular epidemiology of the outbreak, C. jejuni isolates (n=130; 59 humans, 40 peas and 31 wild birds) were further characterized by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). Here, we present the molecular evidence to demonstrate the association of many more human C. jejuni infections associated with the outbreak with raw peas and wild bird feces. Among all sequence types (STs) identified, 26 (67%) of 39 were novel and exclusive to the outbreak. Five clusters of overlapping STs (n=32 isolates; 17 humans, 2 peas and 13 wild birds) were identified. In particular, Cluster E (n=7 isolates, ST-5049) consisted of isolates from humans, peas and wild birds. Novel STs clustered closely with isolates typically associated with wild birds and the environment, but distinct from lineages commonly seen in human infections. Novel STs and alleles recovered from human outbreak isolates allowed additional infections caused by these rare genotypes to be attributed to the contaminated raw peas. |
Increase in Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections associated with consumption of Atlantic Coast shellfish - 2013
Newton AE , Garrett N , Stroika SG , Halpin JL , Turnsek M , Mody RK . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2014 63 (15) 335-6 Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) is found naturally in coastal saltwater. In the United States, Vp causes an estimated 35,000 domestically acquired foodborne infections annually, of which most are attributable to consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish. Illness typically consists of mild to moderate gastroenteritis, although severe infection can occur. Demographic, clinical, and exposure information (including traceback information on implicated seafood) for all laboratory-confirmed illnesses are reported by state health departments to CDC through the Cholera and Other Vibrio Surveillance system. Vp isolates are distinguished by serotyping (>90 serotypes have been described) and by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). |
Cholera epidemic associated with consumption of unsafe drinking water and street-vended water - eastern Freetown, Sierra Leone, 2012
Nguyen VD , Sreenivasan N , Lam E , Ayers T , Kargbo D , Dafae F , Jambai A , Alemu W , Kamara A , Islam MS , Stroika S , Bopp C , Quick R , Mintz ED , Brunkard JM . Am J Trop Med Hyg 2014 90 (3) 518-23 During 2012, Sierra Leone experienced a cholera epidemic with 22,815 reported cases and 296 deaths. We conducted a matched case-control study to assess risk factors, enrolling 49 cases and 98 controls. Stool specimens were analyzed by culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Conditional logistic regression found that consuming unsafe water (matched odds ratio [mOR]: 3.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1, 11.0), street-vended water (mOR: 9.4; 95% CI: 2.0, 43.7), and crab (mOR: 3.3; 95% CI: 1.03, 10.6) were significant risk factors for cholera infection. Of 30 stool specimens, 13 (43%) showed PCR evidence of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae O1. Six specimens yielded isolates of V. cholerae O1, El Tor; PFGE identified a pattern previously observed in seven countries. We recommended ensuring the quality of improved water sources, promoting household chlorination, and educating street vendors on water handling practices. |
Evolutionary dynamics of Vibrio cholerae O1 following a single-source introduction to Haiti
Katz LS , Petkau A , Beaulaurier J , Tyler S , Antonova ES , Turnsek MA , Guo Y , Wang S , Paxinos EE , Orata F , Gladney LM , Stroika S , Folster JP , Rowe L , Freeman MM , Knox N , Frace M , Boncy J , Graham M , Hammer BK , Boucher Y , Bashir A , Hanage WP , Van Domselaar G , Tarr CL . mBio 2013 4 (4) Prior to the epidemic that emerged in Haiti in October of 2010, cholera had not been documented in this country. After its introduction, a strain of Vibrio cholerae O1 spread rapidly throughout Haiti, where it caused over 600,000 cases of disease and >7,500 deaths in the first two years of the epidemic. We applied whole-genome sequencing to a temporal series of V. cholerae isolates from Haiti to gain insight into the mode and tempo of evolution in this isolated population of V. cholerae O1. Phylogenetic and Bayesian analyses supported the hypothesis that all isolates in the sample set diverged from a common ancestor within a time frame that is consistent with epidemiological observations. A pangenome analysis showed nearly homogeneous genomic content, with no evidence of gene acquisition among Haiti isolates. Nine nearly closed genomes assembled from continuous-long-read data showed evidence of genome rearrangements and supported the observation of no gene acquisition among isolates. Thus, intrinsic mutational processes can account for virtually all of the observed genetic polymorphism, with no demonstrable contribution from horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Consistent with this, the 12 Haiti isolates tested by laboratory HGT assays were severely impaired for transformation, although unlike previously characterized noncompetent V. cholerae isolates, each expressed hapR and possessed a functional quorum-sensing system. Continued monitoring of V. cholerae in Haiti will illuminate the processes influencing the origin and fate of genome variants, which will facilitate interpretation of genetic variation in future epidemics. IMPORTANCE Vibrio cholerae is the cause of substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide, with over three million cases of disease each year. An understanding of the mode and rate of evolutionary change is critical for proper interpretation of genome sequence data and attribution of outbreak sources. The Haiti epidemic provides an unprecedented opportunity to study an isolated, single-source outbreak of Vibrio cholerae O1 over an established time frame. By using multiple approaches to assay genetic variation, we found no evidence that the Haiti strain has acquired any genes by horizontal gene transfer, an observation that led us to discover that it is also poorly transformable. We have found no evidence that environmental strains have played a role in the evolution of the outbreak strain. |
Multistate outbreak of Escherichia coli O145 infections associated with romaine lettuce consumption, 2010
Taylor EV , Nguyen TA , Machesky KD , Koch E , Sotir MJ , Bohm SR , Folster JP , Bokanyi R , Kupper A , Bidol SA , Emanuel A , Arends KD , Johnson SA , Dunn J , Stroika S , Patel MK , Williams I . J Food Prot 2013 76 (6) 939-44 Non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) can cause severe illness, including hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). STEC O145 is the sixth most commonly reported non-O157 STEC in the United States, although outbreaks have been infrequent. In April and May 2010, we investigated a multistate outbreak of STEC O145 infection. Confirmed cases were STEC O145 infections with isolate pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns indistinguishable from those of the outbreak strain. Probable cases were STEC O145 infections or HUS in persons who were epidemiologically linked. Case-control studies were conducted in Michigan and Ohio; food exposures were analyzed at the restaurant, menu, and ingredient level. Environmental inspections were conducted in implicated food establishments, and food samples were collected and tested. To characterize clinical findings associated with infections, we conducted a chart review for case patients who sought medical care. We identified 27 confirmed and 4 probable cases from five states. Of these, 14 (45%) were hospitalized, 3 (10%) developed HUS, and none died. Among two case-control studies conducted, illness was significantly associated with consumption of shredded romaine lettuce in Michigan (odds ratio [OR] = undefined; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6 to undefined) and Ohio (OR = 10.9; 95% CI = 3.1 to 40.5). Samples from an unopened bag of shredded romaine lettuce yielded the predominant outbreak strain. Of 15 case patients included in the chart review, 14 (93%) had diarrhea and abdominal cramps and 11 (73%) developed bloody diarrhea. This report documents the first foodborne outbreak of STEC O145 infections in the United States. Current surveillance efforts focus primarily on E. coli O157 infections; however, non-O157 STEC can cause similar disease and outbreaks, and efforts should be made to identify both O157 and non-O157 STEC infections. Providers should test all patients with bloody diarrhea for both non-O157 and O157 STEC. |
Multistate outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections associated with in-store sampling of an aged raw-milk gouda cheese, 2010
McCollum JT , Williams NJ , Beam SW , Cosgrove S , Ettestad PJ , Ghosh TS , Kimura AC , Nguyen L , Stroika SG , Vogt RL , Watkins AK , Weiss JR , Williams IT , Cronquist A . J Food Prot 2012 75 (10) 1759-65 In 2010, 41 patients ill with Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolates determined to be indistinguishable by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis were identified among residents of five Southwestern U.S. states. A majority of patients reported consuming complimentary samples of aged raw-milk Gouda cheese at national warehouse chain store locations; sampling Gouda cheese was significantly associated with illness (odds ratio, 9.0; 95 % confidence interval, 1.7 to 47). Several Gouda samples yielded the O157:H7 outbreak strain, confirming the food vehicle and source of infections. Implicated retail food-sampling operations were inconsistently regulated among affected states, and sanitation deficiencies were common among sampling venues. Inspection of the cheese manufacturer indicated deficient sanitation practices and insufficient cheese curing times. Policymakers should continue to reexamine the adequacy and enforcement of existing rules intended to ensure the safety of raw-milk cheeses and retail food sampling. Additional research is necessary to clarify the food safety hazards posed to patrons who consume free food samples while shopping. |
Molecular evidence for zoonotic transmission of an emergent, highly pathogenic Campylobacter jejuni clone in the United States
Sahin O , Fitzgerald C , Stroika S , Zhao S , Sippy RJ , Kwan P , Plummer PJ , Han J , Yaeger MJ , Zhang Q . J Clin Microbiol 2012 50 (3) 680-7 Campylobacter jejuni is a major zoonotic pathogen. A highly virulent, tetracycline-resistant C. jejuni clone (clone SA) has recently emerged in ruminant reservoirs and has become the predominant cause of sheep abortion in the United States. To determine whether clone SA is associated with human disease, we compared the clinical isolates of clone SA from sheep abortions with the human isolates of the PulseNet National Campylobacter databases at the CDC and the FDA using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and serotyping. The combined SmaI and KpnI PFGE pattern designations of clone SA from sheep were indistinguishable from those of 123 (9.03%) human C. jejuni isolates (total, 1,361) in the CDC database, among which 56 were associated with sporadic infections and 67 were associated with outbreaks that occurred in multiple states from 2003 to 2010. Most of the outbreaks were attributed to raw milk, while the sources for most of the sporadic cases were unknown. All clone SA isolates examined, including PFGE-matched human isolates, belong to sequence type 8 (ST-8) by MLST and serotype HS:1,8, further indicating the clonality of the related isolates from different host species. Additionally, C. jejuni clone SA was identified in raw milk, cattle feces, the feces and bile of healthy sheep, and abortion cases of cattle and goats, indicating the broad distribution of this pathogenic clone in ruminants. These results provide strong molecular and epidemiological evidence for zoonotic transmission of this emergent clone from ruminants to humans and indicate that C. jejuni clone SA is an important threat to public health. |
A novel vehicle for transmission of Escherichia coli O157:H7 to humans: multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections associated with consumption of ready-to-bake commercial prepackaged cookie dough--United States, 2009
Neil KP , Biggerstaff G , Macdonald JK , Trees E , Medus C , Musser KA , Stroika SG , Zink D , Sotir MJ . Clin Infect Dis 2011 54 (4) 511-8 BACKGROUND: Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) associated with numerous foodborne outbreaks in the United States and is an important cause of bacterial gastrointestinal illness. In May 2009, we investigated a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections. METHODS: Outbreak-associated cases were identified using serotyping and molecular subtyping procedures. Traceback investigation and product testing were performed. A matched case-control study was conducted to identify exposures associated with illness using age-, sex-, and state-matched controls. RESULTS: Seventy-seven patients with illnesses during the period 16 March-8 July 2009 were identified from 30 states; 35 were hospitalized, 10 developed hemolytic-uremic syndrome, and none died. Sixty-six percent of patients were <19 years; 71% were female. In the case-control study, 33 of 35 case patients (94%) consumed ready-to-bake commercial prepackaged cookie dough, compared with 4 of 36 controls (11%) (matched odds ratio = 41.3; P < .001); no other reported exposures were significantly associated with illness. Among case patients consuming cookie dough, 94% reported brand A. Three nonoutbreak STEC strains were isolated from brand A cookie dough. The investigation led to a recall of 3.6 million packages of brand A cookie dough and a product reformulation. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first reported STEC outbreak associated with consuming ready-to-bake commercial prepackaged cookie dough. Despite instructions to bake brand A cookie dough before eating, case patients consumed the product uncooked. Manufacturers should consider formulating ready-to-bake commercial prepackaged cookie dough to be as safe as a ready-to-eat product. More effective consumer education about the risks of eating unbaked cookie dough is needed. |
Cholera in United States associated with epidemic in Hispaniola
Newton AE , Heiman KE , Schmitz A , Torok T , Apostolou A , Hanson H , Gounder P , Bohm S , Kurkjian K , Parsons M , Talkington D , Stroika S , Madoff LC , Elson F , Sweat D , Cantu V , Akwari O , Mahon BE , Mintz ED . Emerg Infect Dis 2011 17 (11) 2166-2168 Cholera is rare in the United States (annual average 6 cases). Since epidemic cholera began in Hispaniola in 2010, a total of 23 cholera cases caused by toxigenic Vibrio cholerae O1 have been confirmed in the United States. Twenty-two case-patients reported travel to Hispaniola and 1 reported consumption of seafood from Haiti. |
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