Background: Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Berta (antigenic formula 1,9,12:[f],g,[t]:–) is a serovar of the group O:9 (D1) serogroup. This serovar is considered rare and is scarcely associated with human cases. It typically causes gastrointestinal food poisoning; however, serious infections such as myocarditis and meningitis due to this organism have been reported as well. The symptoms of splenic abscesses are usually non-specific and include fever, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
NCBI PD link for serovar Berta: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pathogens/isolates/#(taxgroup_name:%22Salmonella%20enterica%22)%20AND%20computed_types:(%22serotype=Berta%22)
Animal reservoir: Serovar Berta was found in cattle, chickens, turkeys, wild boars, dogs, horses, and deer, albeit at a very low frequency.
Geographical distribution: Serovar Berta has only been described in the UK, the US and Canada.
Human outbreaks:
Year | Location | Associated source | Number of cases |
| 2023 | US: WA | Unknown source | 6 |
| 2002 | US: WA | Cantaloupe, grapes, or watermelon | 29 |
| 1994 | Canada | Soft cheese product | 82 |
Border rejections: There have been no recent border rejections linked to this serovar.
Recalls: There have been no recent recalls linked to this serovar.
Relevant links: