Salmonella in Raw Turkey Sickens 90 Across 26 States
Salmonella in Raw Turkey Sickens 90 Across 26 States
A salmonella outbreak linked to raw turkey products has sickened at least 90 people across 26 states and at least six of the victims are in California. According to a KTLA news report, 40 victims nationwide have been hospitalized. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who have gotten sick reported eating different types and brands of turkey products purchased from several locations. Of the 61 people interviewed, 37 reported preparing or eating turkey products that were purchased raw, including ground turkey, turkey pieces and whole turkey before they began experiencing symptoms.
Turkey Linked to Outbreak
Two of the 61 people interviewed became sick after pets in their home ate raw ground turkey pet food. Three of the people interviewed reported working in a facility that raises or processes turkeys or living with someone who worked in such facilities. Samples of raw turkey pet food, raw turkey products and live turkeys have tested positive for the outbreak strain of salmonella, which means the outbreak is widespread in the industry, CDC officials say. The initial cases of the illness began in November and they have continued to this month.
CDC officials say they have not identified a single source for the outbreak at this time. They are reminding consumers to wash their hands thoroughly after handling any raw meat and poultry products, cook the products to a safe recommended temperature and use a food thermometer. The CDC has noted that the outbreak is a reminder that raw turkey products may have germs and could spread around the kitchen and cause people to become ill.
If You Have Been Sickened
There are about 1.2 million salmonella cases each year in the United States. Salmonella infections often involve symptoms such as diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps about 12 to 72 hours after being exposed to the bacteria. These symptoms may last four to seven days and most people recover without treatment. In some cases, rarely, salmonella could cause death if the patient is not treated with antibiotics in a timely manner.
If you or a loved one has been sickened after eating these products, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the food producer, processor, retailer or other parties along the supply chain whose negligence may have caused or contributed to your illness. Contact an experienced food poisoning lawyer who will help you secure maximum compensation for your losses.
