April 11, 2014
US salmonella outbreak linked with Foster Farms chicken
In an outbreak that has spanned more than one year, a total of 524 people in the US have become ill with Salmonella Heidelberg likely related to Foster Farms raw chicken.
Since March 3, 43 new cases have been reported and it is possible that more will occur in the coming weeks, according to the latest update from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). People who became sick after March 8 may not have reported their cases yet, as it typically takes between two to four weeks for a person to report their illness.
So far, cases associated with the outbreak have been reported in 25 states and Puerto Rico, with most of the illness (76%) occurring in California. Approximately 37% of patients have been hospitalised, but no deaths have been reported.
After the circulating strain of Salmonella Heidelbergwas traced back to two Foster Farms slaughter establishments in July, the outbreak has been linked with Foster Farms brand chicken. In a statement, Foster Farms said it is continuing to work on reducing Salmonella contamination at their facilities.
The CDC noted that several strains of Salmonella Heidelberg are resistant to many common antibiotics, potentially increasing the risk of hospitalisation for infected individuals. The CDC advises consumers to practice proper food safety tips- such as washing your hands and food thoroughly, separating meat from other foods in the refrigerator, and cooking meat to a safe minimum temperature.