Epidemiological investigation of an outbreak of cutaneous sporotrichosis, Northern Territory, Australia

Abstract

BackgroundAn outbreak of cutaneous sporotrichosis occurred in the Darwin region of the Northern Territory (NT) in 2014. We aimed to determine the source and risk factors associated with the outbreak and describe the clinical spectrum of cases seen.MethodsEpidemiological investigation of cases of cutaneous sporotrichosis identified through the Royal Darwin Hospital was undertaken to investigate risk factors and potential sources of infection. Data were collected through chart review and individual patient interviews. Environmental investigation followed identification of a common risk factor.ResultsNine confirmed cases of cutaneous sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix schenckii were identified with onset of symptoms between April and July 2014. Patients were aged 29 to 70 years and seven were male (78 %). Two strains of S. schenckii were identified, neither of which have been previously documented. One common risk factor was identified: all patients were occupational or recreational gardeners, with each reporting exposure to mulching hay, originating from a single NT farm. Local environmental health officers visited the farm and the owners confirmed that the implicated hay had been stored over the monsoon season and had been affected by rain. Storage of hay over the wet season was a new practice.ConclusionsThis constitutes the third reported outbreak of S. schenckii sporotrichosis attributable to contaminated hay in Australia and the first outbreak of sporotrichosis in the NT. This outbreak prompted public health interventions, including distribution of information to general practitioners, farmers and suppliers in the Top End. Media reporting led to the identification and treatment of an additional case. Local practitioners should remain alert to the possibility of further occurrences of sporotrichosis.

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Spotting sporotrichosis skin infection: The first Australian paediatric case series

“…1). 2 Systemic involvement is rare in children, unless immunocompromised. 3 The incidence of sporotrichosis in Australia is poorly defined, as there is no national surveillance.…”

“…Since the first reported case in 1951, approximately 200 Australian cases have been published, including less than 10 paediatric cases . Previous reviews have focused on outbreak settings; four related to contaminated hay . In this 17‐year case‐series from WA, we present the epidemiology and salient clinical features of paediatric sporotrichosis infection, including treatment and outcome data.…”

“…Similar painless lesions spread proximally along the lymphatic chain termed ‘sporotrichoid spread’ (Fig. ) . Systemic involvement is rare in children, unless immunocompromised …”

“…The incidence of sporotrichosis in Australia is poorly defined, as there is no national surveillance. Since the first reported case in 1951, approximately 200 Australian cases have been published, including less than 10 paediatric cases . Previous reviews have focused on outbreak settings; four related to contaminated hay .…”