Monitoring systems of Salmonella in Spain to assess a “one health” approach towards a potential risk to humans from ingestion of contaminated pork meat

Abstract

Purpose: Salmonella are a ubiquitous genus of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of healthy birds and mammals that can cause food-borne illness in humans. It is frequently found in eggs and raw meat from pigs and poultry. Pork is the third most frequently contaminated meat, after fresh chicken and turkey. Salmonella is the agent more frequently involved in foodborne outbreaks in Spain. Spain is a powerful global producer of swine, ranking first in swine census of the EU in 2015 (28.3 million heads). The production of pork in 2015 almost reached 4 million tonnes (3.8 millions), with more than 45 million heads being slaughtered. Spain is the world's fourth pork producer, after China, USA and Germany. Mainly an exporting country, it has become the EU's third largest exporter of swine, after Germany and Denmark. The Salmonella status in pigs is monitored through faeces sampling at the farm, or more generally, at the slaughterhouse, where also mesenteric lymph nodes can be tested. When Salmonella is diagnosed in humans, very often the patient receives treatment without further investigation, unless there is an outbreak associated with the case which would then result in an investigation of the possible source of infection. Methods & Materials: Here we review the monitoring systems in Spain of Salmonella in swine, pork and pork products and humans to assess. First, we have reviewed the different directives and regulations that mandate the monitoring of salmonella in Spain, focusing on salmonellas of swine origin. Next, we have identified the official sources of Salmonella monitoring in Spain. Then, we have analysed the results of the different monitoring systems. Finally, we argue the differences between systems and potential ways to integrate surveillance across sectors if needed for the benefit of all parties. Results: Results obtained allow us to evaluate the feasibility of a one-health perspective towards surveillance, identifying potential gaps and suggesting improvements towards a more integrated approach in this significant zoonosis disease. Conclusion: Control of Salmonella must focus on preventive action and monitoring targeted. This work has been funded by the EU Project JRP6 - NOVA - FBZ1 - 1st Call.