An increase in <"https://www.yourlawyer.com/practice_areas/food_poisoning">Salmonella illnesses has been reported in Illinois, according to the Kane County Health Department. My Suburban Life reports that 10 cases of Salmonella ser Typhimurium have been reported in the past two weeks.
Of the 10 illnesses, seven people reportedly ate at the St. Charles Portillo, a restaurant in Kane County, Illinois, during April, said My Suburban Life. All seven people tested positive for Typhimurium Salmonella.
The Health Department described the increased Salmonella reports as “rare.â€
Investigations continue; however, no specific foods have been identified as the source of the outbreak.
This Monday evening, St. Charles Portillo was sanitized and all of its food workers were tested for the dangerous and sometimes deadly foodborne pathogen. Before they can return to work, Health Department officials said the food workers are required to provide two samples—they must be 24 hours apart, wrote My Suburban Life.
The restaurant’s statement indicated that “all employees will be tested and will return to work only after they’ve received a clean bill of health,†quoted The Chicago Tribune.
Portillo’s has called in some of its workers from other locations so that the restaurant can remain operational will test results are being completed, said My Suburban Life, citing the restaurant’s press release.
Contamination with the Salmonella pathogen can cause salmonellosis, which can lead to serious consequences, most especially in the elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems, who may experience a more serious illness and symptoms. In these patients, the infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream, and then to other body sites, and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that people suffering from salmonellosis usually experience symptoms beginning 12 to 72 hours after becoming contaminated. Symptoms may include fever, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea and usually last 4 to 7 days. Most people recover without antibiotic treatment; however, diarrhea can be very severe, and hospitalization may be required.
While most people recover without treatment or visiting a doctor, the Health Department is recommending anyone experiencing these symptoms visit their physician.
