Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Raw Turkey Claims One Life in California, Sickens More than 275 Others Nationwide
At least 63 more people have been infected with salmonella linked to raw turkey products in an outbreak that began in November 2017. According to a KTLA news report, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that there have been 279 reported cases of salmonella associated with raw turkey products in 41 states and the District of Columbia as of Feb. 13. Of those, 107 people were hospitalized. One death was reported in California.
Severe national outbreak
Those who became sickened have said they’ve used a number of types and brands of raw turkey products and the CDC has been unable to locate the origin of the outbreak. So, it has been going ahead with recalls and advising consumers to take precautions while eating raw turkey. In November, Jennie-O recalled ground raw turkey due to salmonella concerns.
Salmonella is typically contracted by consuming contaminated food. Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Those afflicted could experience stomach cramps as soon as 12 to 72 hours after exposure. Most people are ill for four to seven days and tend to recover without treatment. The elderly, young children and individuals with compromised immune systems are most at risk of salmonella infections. The infection can also travel from the intestines to the bloodstream and cause a more widespread infection throughout the body.
Preventing Salmonella Contamination
There are a number of precautions that could be taken in order to prevent these types of food-borne illnesses. Anytime you’re preparing raw meat, it should be thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill pathogens that may be present. If you are preparing raw meat, you should wash your hands well before and after. Raw turkey should not be washed before preparing because of the risk of spreading the bacteria to other cooking surfaces.
If you or a loved one has been afflicted with a salmonella infection, it is important that you get prompt medical attention, treatment and care. If your illness was caused by negligence during food processing, manufacturing or preparation, you may be able to file a food poisoning lawsuit against the at-fault parties. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to assist you with understanding your legal rights and options.