The Yakima Health District in Washington is investigating 10 confirmed and suspected cases of Salmonella infection among individuals who reported eating food at the Fourth of July event hosted by Imperial’s Garden located at 4817 Lateral A Road, Wapato, WA 98951.
This event was not related to the operations of Imperial’s Garden farm stand and Imperial’s Garden is working closely with the Yakima Health District to determine the source of the outbreak.
Individuals who attended the event and became ill would have most likely developed symptoms between July 5 and July 9.
Food workers who experienced symptoms consistent with Salmonella infection after attending the event should contact the Yakima Health District at 509-249-6532. Food workers with confirmed Salmonella infection require approval to return to work from the Yakima Health District in accordance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-215- 02245.
Restaurant operators are reminded to monitor employees for symptoms of foodborne illness and exclude ill employees from food handling duties in accordance with WAC 246-215-02220.
About Salmonella infections
Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile.
Anyone who attended the event and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about the possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea may be so severe that patients require hospitalization.
Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop a severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions.
Some people get infected without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they may still spread the infections to others.
