The Salmonella outbreak at the Blue Hill Care Center in Nebraska may have contributed to the death of one person. So far, 17 people have been sickened in the outbreak. The outbreak strain of bacteria is Salmonella Newport. The South Heartland District Health Department is responsible for residents living in that part of the state.
Early indications are that the bacteria is not antibiotic-resistant, according to Leah Bucco-White, Public Information Officer at the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The government has performed ioslate tests on the bacteria. The final results will not be available for a few more days.
The person who died had other complicating factors, so officials aren’t sure if the Salmonella infection contributed to the death. There is no word yet on the age or identity of the person who died. Salmonella infections, especially in the elderly and others in high risk groups, can lead to complications such as Reactive Arthritis, also known as Reiter’s Syndrome. This form of arthritis can damage the urinary tract, joints, and eye tissue and can lead to heart problems.
There is also no word on where the bacteria came from. It’s possible that the Salmonella came from animals, cross-contamination, or was present in food. Officials believe the outbreak is over. The 62-bed skilled care center is located in Webster county, Nebraska.
