Typhoid outbreak ends after eight people hospitalised

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

An outbreak of the potentially fatal disease typhoid has ended with no further cases expected, Te Whatu Ora - Health NZ says.

The outbreak among a team of overseas workers in Tairawhiti in September, ended with eight confirmed and three probable cases.

“Eight out of the 11 people with typhoid were admitted to Gisborne Hospital in September, reflecting the severe nature of the disease,” Te Whatu Ora medical officer of health Dr Osman David Mansoor said.

He also paid tribute to the affected group of workers and their employer.

“All of the workers cooperated with our investigation and followed health advice to prevent any further spread of the typhoid bacteria to others.

“This meant there was no spread outside the group. The carrier and everyone else with the illness has now provided samples to show that they are free of infection.

“Further cases within the group or in the community are unlikely.”

It is believed the outbreak began with one of the team members who had returned from overseas.

Typhoid is caused by a type of Salmonella bacteria that infects only humans. Symptoms include fever and generally feeling unwell. This is sometimes accompanied by abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

The disease is not common in Aotearoa New Zealand and is generally associated with overseas travel. It is usually spread through drinking or eating food or water contaminated by an infected person.

Anyone with any concerns can call Healthline 0800 611 116 or contact their usual health provider.