A Salmonella outbreak has sickened 26 people in Iowa, the state hardest hit by a Cyclospora outbreak. At least 140 people in Iowa have infections from the rare parasite Cyclospora, now two dozens others are battling bacterial infections from Salmonella.
“Salmonella is commonly the result of improper handling or preparation of food,” said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, medical director of the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH). “This particular strain is often associated with improper cooking of poultry or eggs.”
While symptoms of both infections are similar, the outbreaks are not related. IDPH offers the following advice on how to reduce the risk of foodborne illness: Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom, before preparing food, and after playing with pets or visiting a petting zoo. Use a food thermometer to grill chicken to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
When making salads that call for hard-cooked eggs, such as potato or macaroni salad, be certain the eggs are thoroughly cooked and the yolks are firm. Do not use raw eggs to make homemade ice cream. Instead, use pasteurized egg products, or by temper and cook the eggs in a hot custard ice cream base. Remember to keep cold food cold and hot food hot. In the summer, do not leave foods out for more than one hour.
