The Salmonella outbreak we reported on last week has been confirmed as Salmonella enteritidis, according to MLive. Eighteen cases have been confirmed in Muskegon County. The Muskegon County web site was down at the time of this report.
Officials believe that a single source caused the outbreak, and that people were exposed to the bacteria from October 30 to November 2, 2013. Seventeen of the eighteen cases are related. There is no information about the source of the bacteria, where the patients ate, or what they ate. Officials are going to start studying epidemiological evidence and will conduct statistical analysis this week.
Salmonella enteritidis is a common cause of food poisoning. The bacteria is found on poultry and in eggs. Other foods that have caused Salmonella enteritidis outbreaks in the past include live poultry and reptiles, sprouts, raw milk, pork, beef, and raw almonds. The symptoms of this infection include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever and occur about 12 hours to 3 days after exposure.
To reduce your risk of contracting Salmonella enteritidis, cook all meats thoroughly to 165 degrees F. Do not consume raw or undercooked eggs. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling reptiles, birds, or amphibians. Avoid cross-contamination and thoroughly clean countertops, appliances, and utensils after contact with raw poultry or raw meat. And never eat undercooked meat or poultry at a restaurant.
