A Salmonella outbreak in Monongalia county, West Virginia is being investigated. Officials do not yet know what has caused this increase in cases. They also do not know whether this outbreak is ongoing or has ended. There is no common link identified among the reported cases. And they do not know the cause of the outbreak, or whether it was caused by food or a sick person working at a restaurant or grocery store. Several people have been hospitalized because they are so ill, but there have been no deaths.
The county is urging anyone who is experiencing the symptoms of a Salmonella infection, which include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea that may be bloody, in the last two weeks to see their health care provider. Early detection of this infection may shorten the length of the infection and make it easier to treat.
Some recent Salmonella outbreaks have been linked to shell eggs, shellfish, raw milk, broccoli sprouts, restaurants, alfalfa sprouts, jalapeños, dietary supplements, and chicken. In other words, almost any food can be contaminated with this pathogen.
While officials work to solve this outbreak, they are also urging people to practice good food safety precautions. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before preparing food and eating. Avoid cross-contamination between meats and poultry and foods that are eaten raw such as leafy greens. Wash cutting boards and utensils after each use. And always cook food thoroughly to safe final internal temperatures.
