Salmonella Outbreak in Colorado Remains a Mystery as 17 Victims are Identified
Although the Wawona Peach Salmonella and the Red Onion Salmonella investigations (both affecting large parts of the United States) are ongoing, it seems a new mysterious Salmonella outbreak has appeared in Colorado – as of yet there is no known cause. Currently leading a joint investigation, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), as well as the Northeast Colorado Health Department, are attempting to track down a Salmonella outbreak that has caused 17 reported infections in Northeast Colorado as of September 18, 2020.
The cluster of infections is mainly based in Logan County, with 11 reported cases. It is possible more infections will be reported in the future, as the latest infection was reported on September 17, 2020, and the earliest reported illness on August 1, 2020. According to CDPHE communications manager Deanna Herbert, it is highly unlikely this cluster of Salmonella infections is unrelated, as statistically speaking this Northeast area of Colorado typically reports fewer than 12 Salmonella infections between the months of August and September.
According to national salmonella lawyer Ron Simon, who resides in Colorado:
“whenever there is a spike in salmonella cases, health experts first look to see if it is a single strain (and there are more than 2200 salmonella strains). If they are, they are confident a single product or location, say of a particular restaurant, is the cause. As it is, the higher the number of illnesses the easier it is, usually, to identify the common source.”
According to the CDC, Salmonella is a foodborne illness causing bacteria that causes the majority of food poisoning cases in the United States with approximately 1.35 million infections per year. Salmonellosis, the infection caused by Salmonella contamination, symptoms may begin as early as 6 hours and as late as 6 days after consumption, and the illness typically lasts 4-7 days. Symptoms of Salmonella contamination typically present as typical food poisoning symptoms: diarrhea, which may be bloody, fever, and stomach cramps, though some patients have reported symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Medical treatment may be necessary for Salmonella contamination in cases with dehydration or a fever of more than 102 degrees Fahrenheit. People with compromised immune systems, such as the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems, are at an increased risk for a severe Salmonella infection, such as bloodstream infection. If you believe you are suffering from Salmonella contamination, contact your physician immediately.
