General outbreaks of infectious intestinal disease associated with fish and shellfish, England and Wales, 1992-1999.

Between 1992 and 1999 1425 foodborne general outbreaks of Infectious Intestinal Disease (IID) were reported to the PHLS Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre. Of these, 148 (10%) were associated with the consumption of fish and shellfish. Three main aetiologies were identified. Outbreaks associated with fish (47%) occurred more frequently in the summer months, and were linked with Scombrotoxic fish poisoning caused by the consumption of tuna that was improperly stored. Outbreaks associated with molluscs (36%) were associated with the consumption of oysters contaminated with viral pathogens, particularly in February. Outbreaks associated with the consumption of crustaceans (11%) often involved eating prawns that contained either salmonellas or viral pathogens. The maintenance of microbial quality from prior to capture/harvesting until the moment of consumption, based on a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point style approach, is essential if gastrointestinal illness associated with such produce is to be avoided.