[Increase in Salmonella enteritidis infections in man: a world-wide problem].

During 1985 to 1990 a nearly threefold increase in human salmonellosis was observed in the Federal Republic of Germany, which was mainly due to an extremely high increase of the incidence of the serovar Salmonella Enteritidis (phage type 4), probably reflecting a worldwide epidemiological phenomenon due to the increased incidence of the serovar Enteritidis. Poultry and eggs were identified in various countries as most probable sources and routes of infection. An increased virulence for poultry, leading to chronic septicaemic infections of the animals, is discussed. The following measures are proposed for control: 1) identification and eradication of infected flocks, 2) improved husbandry practices, 3) salmonella-free animal feed, 4) hygienic disposal of all waste, 5) improved abattoir practices, 6) better education of the consumer concerning food hygiene, and 7) improved cooperation between commercial producers, research and Public Health while promoting modern epidemiologic and diagnostic methods.