Multilocus variable number of tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) - a reliable tool for rapid investigation of Salmonella Typhimurium outbreaks

Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium is a frequently occurring foodborne pathogen which causes many sporadic cases worldwide and is frequently the responsible agent in outbreaks of gastroenteritis. In elucidating outbreaks involving consumption of contaminated food, source tracing in a timely manner is imperative. Furthermore, it is important for risk managers to be able to accurately attribute sporadic cases to specific animal host species and to understand transmission routes of S. Typhimurium. Epidemiological meaningful subdivision of this serotype is therefore indispensable.