Pennsylvania Health Department Investigates Salmonella Cases Linked to National Outbreak

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Pennsylvania has identified five cases linked to the current multi-state Salmonella outbreak, which has produced 172 cases nationwide to date, state Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson announced today. One case each has been identified in Adams, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, and Philadelphia counties. No one in Pennsylvania has been hospitalized due to Salmonella.

"The department is working very closely with the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to conduct local public health investigations," Johnson said. "Our investigators are looking to find a link to a specific food source for the outbreak so additional cases can be prevented."

Salmonella is a bacterial infection that affects the intestinal tract and sometimes can affect the bloodstream and other organs. It is one of the most common causes of gastroenteritis, which can include diarrhea and vomiting. Approximately 2,000 cases of Salmonella are reported each year in Pennsylvania.

Onset of illness usually occurs in 24 to 72 hours, and patients typically recover in 5 to 7 days. Patients often do not require treatment unless they become severely dehydrated or the infection spreads from the intestines. Persons with severe diarrhea may require rehydration, often with intravenous fluids. Antibiotics are not usually necessary unless the infection spreads from the intestines.

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Health