The South East Health Unit in Ontario, Canada, has launched an investigation into an elevated number of Salmonella infections potentially connected to a Perth, Ontario restaurant. Officials are seeking information from those who dined at Rocky River Café on Wilson Street on or around July 15, 2025, and subsequently developed gastrointestinal symptoms.
The health unit has issued a closure order for Rocky River Café under Section 13 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act as part of the ongoing investigation. The restaurant will remain closed until a comprehensive inspection confirms the premises is safe for reopening.
Salmonella represents a group of bacteria capable of causing gastroenteritis and digestive tract infections, with potential progression to more severe conditions including sepsis. The infection typically manifests through diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms generally appear between 6 hours to 7 days after exposure, most commonly within 12 to 36 hours.
Health officials emphasize that Salmonella transmission can occur through multiple pathways. The bacteria spreads person-to-person through contaminated hands or objects, while infections also result from consuming contaminated food products.
Individuals who ate at the cafe around the specified date and experienced symptoms are urged to contact the South East Health Unit at 1-800-660-5853 extension 2222. The health unit has also established an online reporting system to gather information for the investigation.
Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention from their healthcare provider. Residents without established medical care can contact Health Care Connect at 811, visit www.virtualcareontario.ca, or call 1-888-684-1999.
While the initial exposure likely stems from contaminated food, health officials warn that infection risk continues due to person-to-person transmission capabilities. The health unit has outlined specific prevention measures to limit spread.
Key prevention strategies include thorough handwashing with soap and water after bathroom use, diaper changes, and before food preparation or consumption. Individuals experiencing diarrhea or vomiting should avoid food preparation and service activities.
Specific occupational restrictions apply to symptomatic food handlers, childcare workers, and healthcare workers, who must not attend work while experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Children with these symptoms cannot attend daycare, summer programs, or school until remaining symptom-free for 48 hours.
The South East Health Unit operates under Ontario’s Health Protection and Promotion Act and accompanying regulations, which mandate food service premise inspections. The organization responds to public complaints regarding food safety practices and maintains oversight of various establishments within their jurisdiction.
The investigation continues as health officials work closely with restaurant operators to identify and eliminate potential risk factors.
