A Salmonella outbreak at Moshava California Camp in Running Springs in the San Bernardino mountains has sickened at least 11 people, according to the Jewish Journal. The camp is closing early so the Department of Environmental Health of San Bernardino County can inspect the site and clean it.
The camp was originally supposed to end on July 17, but will close tomorrow, July 14, 2016, instead. The camp opened on June 27. About 180 campers were enrolled in this session. The camp is for children in grades 3 through 10. It is a branch of the religious Zionist youth movement.
The symptoms of a Salmonella infection include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, chills, headache, muscle pains, and blood in the stool. These symptoms usually begin six to seventy-two hours after exposure to the pathogenic bacteria. Most people get better within a week, but some, especially children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems, may become so ill they must be hospitalized. Dehydration and sepsis are the most common reasons for hospitalization.
Anyone who is ill with these symptoms and who has a high fever or dehydration should be taken to a doctor immediately. Salmonella patients can become seriously ill and die or have lifelong health complications such as high blood pressure or Reiter’s Syndrome, which can cause reactive arthritis.
Complications of a Salmonella infection can include Reiter’s syndrome, which can lead to reactive arthritis. Other complications are high blood pressure, irritable bowel syndrome, and heart problems.
Past Salmonella outbreaks have been linked to produce, especially bean sprouts, improperly cooked chicken, raw tuna, nut butters, raw nuts, raw cheese, and undercooked or raw ground beef. To prevent these infections, it’s important to cook all meats thoroughly to at least 165°F, wash produce thoroughly before preparing it, and wash your hands well with soap and water before preparing food for others.
If you are sick with a diarrheal illness, stay out of the kitchen and do not prepare or serve food to others. Wash your hands after using the bathroom, after handling uncooked meats, and after changing diapers or caring for someone who is ill.
