In a follow-up on the foodborne illness outbreak in several states of Malaysia linked to the consumption of laksa,  Malaysian health officials have identified the agent as Salmonella enterica serovar Weltevreden.

Image/MOH
Image/MOH

Salmonella enterica serovar Weltevreden bacteria have been detected in the patient’s clinical sample and the sample of the laksa involved.

The total number of outbreak cases is 83 cases including two deaths; with 34 cases in Perak [including two (2) death cases], 25 cases in Kedah and 24 cases in Selangor. All cases hospitalized have been discharged.

Using the Pulse Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) test method, the bacteria is derived from a source, which is purchased from Oct 4, 2018 from the outlet. The laksa sold on 4 October is produced at the premises of mi kuta processing, owned by the entrepreneur who is also the owner of the stall. Risk factors contributing to the incidence of food poisoning may be due to the process of preparing and storing unclean noodles, as well as preparing nitracycline temperature during processing and reheating temperature before consuming inadequate to decompose. On October 21, 2018 evening, the owner of the stall selling the involved laksa involved was informed by the Baling District Health Office regarding the results of the investigation.

The stalls selling the involved laksa has been closed under the Prevention and Control of Diseases Act 1988 since October 8, 2018. Owner of the stall should take urgent remedial measures by ensuring all the requirements of the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985, Food Hygiene Regulations 2009 and requirements Local Authorities are fully complied with. The owner of the stall has also been notified if all these requirements are met then the premises can be reopened.