The outbreak of Salmonella linked to the Mexican restaurant On the Border in Vancouver Washington has grown. Now at least 21 cases are confirmed, and 55 cases are suspected according to the Clark County Public Health Department. The restaurant is closed pending the investigation and the outcome of lab reports.
The people who are sick reported eating at the restaurant between September 20 and October 9, 2012. Since food that was served during that time period has been discarded, it has been difficult to find the source of the bacteria.
Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County Health Officer said in a statement, “our staff is interviewing employees and patrons to learn more about the possible source of this outbreak, such as a contaminated food source. We’re also working with restaurant staff to make sure standard control measures are in place, such as sanitary surfaces and equipment, frequent hand-washing and proper food handling and storage. Restaurant staff has been very cooperative.”
The symptoms of a Salmonella infection include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, chills, headache, muscle pains, and blood in the stool. While most people recover without treatment, some become very ill and can suffer from dehydration or other problems that can cause permanent injury.
