Illinois Subway Salmonella Illnesses Climb to 71

As of June 10th, the number of confirmed salmonella Hvittingfos cases related to Subway stores in Illinois has risen to 71.  The individuals who have become ill range in age from 2 years old to 88, and this infection has spread across 22 counties so far, including Bureau, Cass, Champaign, Christian, Coles, Dewitt, Fulton, Knox, La Salle, Macon, Marshall, Moultrie, Ogle, Peoria, Sangamon, Schuyler, Shelby, Tazewell, Vermilion, Warren, Winnebago, and Will.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, this type of salmonella only accounts for one to two illnesses each year normally.  So far, no identification has been made as to what specific food source is responsible for the outbreak.  The Illinois Department of Public health continues to work to identify the source of the illness, and is combining efforts with local health departments, the FDA, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Following the outbreak, Subway restaurants voluntarily removed all green peppers, lettuce, red onions and tomatoes that were in the stores and replaced these items with fresh produce.

Recently, there have been several outbreaks of salmonella traced to eating foods purchased at restaurants.  Often, these outbreaks occur due to contamination of foods by food workers or service staff who are ill, and cross-contamination.  Additionally, foods such as meat, produce and eggs may be contaminated before they reach the restaurant.  Investigators from environmental health agencies and public health departments occasionally cannot determine the source of the salmonella food poisoning, so the cause of an outbreak may remain a mystery.

Common symptoms of salmonella food poisoning include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.  Healthy individuals usually experience only mild symptoms that last for a short time, however those at risk may develop serious complications.  These individuals include the elderly, young children and those with a weakened immune system.

Anyone who develops symptoms of salmonella food poisoning should seek medical attention. Following your treatment, make sure you contact a Salmonella attorney to assist you with your legal needs to recover damages and medical expenses.

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Glencoe, IL Country Club Salmonella Illnesses Continue to Rise

Recently, 37 individuals who had eaten at the Skokie Country Club in Glencoe Illinois were confirmed to have salmonellosis, and 8 of those individuals were hospitalized.  Now it appears that 2 of the eight remain hospitalized, and officials believe that the outbreak may affect as many as 80 or more people.

While 37 cases were initially linked to the Country Club, 50 others had reported symptoms of salmonella infection, and those have been under investigation.  The kitchen at Skokie Country Club closed voluntarily until the investigation can be completed.  Those who consumed food or drinks at the club between June 12 and 24 are urged to contact Cook County Health Department if experiencing the symptoms of salmonella food poisoning, which include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps.

This particular strain of salmonella, enteritidis, is commonly associated with undercooked eggs.  Some restaurants “pool” eggs, which means that crack numerous eggs and hold a dozen or more in a bucket or large bowl until ready to use, which is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

While the source of the salmonella contamination has yet to be determined, it looks as though improper food handling procedures may be to blame.

Those who work in food preparation areas such as that at the Skokie Country Club should take careful precautions to ensure that foods are being handled in a safe manner, and that hands are washed frequently and food preparation surfaces are kept clean and disinfected.

If you develop symptoms of salmonella food poisoning, call your doctor at once, especially if you are at higher risk of developing serious complications.  Those most at risk include the elderly, young children, and individuals with a weakened immune system.

Brown Chiari is a team of personal injury attorneys in Buffalo NY, experienced in food poisoning cases throughout the north east.

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