King County Washington public health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak at Mary Pilgrim Inn, an emergency temporary housing shelter in Seattle, following Christmas dinner services that affected 14 residents and staff members. The outbreak, which began during a holiday celebration has resulted in five hospitalizations with no reported deaths.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria. While most people recover without specific treatment, the infection can be severe, especially for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The infections have been linked to meals served during Christmas dinner on December 25, 2024, and subsequent consumption of leftovers on December 26. According to health department reports, individuals began experiencing symptoms between December 25 and December 28, 2024. All fourteen affected individuals have tested positive for Salmonella bacteria.
The outbreak was confined to the shelter’s residents and staff, as the Christmas meals were not available to the general public. Health officials initiated their investigation after receiving multiple reports of illness from the facility.
In response to the outbreak, the Seattle Public Health Department conducted an on-site inspection on December 31, 2024. During this visit, health officials met with staff members to review food preparation procedures from the Christmas dinners and provided guidance on improving kitchen food safety protocols.
The investigation remains active, with additional laboratory testing currently underway for other individuals who reported symptoms.
Health officials advise that anyone experiencing symptoms should avoid working in food service, healthcare, or childcare settings until fully recovered. Prevention strategies focus on proper hygiene and food handling practices. Regular handwashing, particularly after bathroom use, diaper changes, and animal contact, is essential. Additionally, thorough cooking of meats, especially poultry, helps eliminate bacteria.
Food preparation safety includes immediate cleaning of surfaces and cutting boards used for raw meat to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
Commenting on this story, the nation’s leading Salmonella lawyer said, “It is unfortunate that a holiday celebration ended in a Salmonella outbreak. Fortunately, no deaths have yet to be reported. This incident is a reminder that those serving food to others must adhere to all food safety protocols to minimize the risk of contamination and sickness.”
