Outbreaks in Illinois

CDC and public health officials in many states are investigating multistate outbreaks of Salmonella infections linked to contact with backyard poultry (such as chicks and ducklings). As of July 28, 2020, 938 cases have been reported in 48 states, including Illinois.  In Illinois, 34 cases matching the outbreak strains have been reported.  The number of illnesses reported this year exceeds the number reported at the same time of the year in previous outbreaks linked to backyard flocks.

Salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Symptoms can occur 6 hours to 6 days after being exposed and can last about 4-7 days. The infection generally affects the intestinal tract but can spread to other parts of the body causing severe illness, especially in children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Most people who have healthy immune systems will recover without treatment.

A public health investigation is being conducted, including interviewing Salmonella cases to identify contact with backyard poultry and collecting information about where they purchased baby poultry.  Testing of backyard poultry and their environments (such as backyard coops) in Kentucky and Oregon found three of the outbreak strains. Traceback investigations from purchase locations to hatcheries are ongoing.

In the United States, outbreaks of Salmonellosis have previously been linked to contact with backyard poultry. Keeping backyard poultry is becoming more popular.  People enjoy raising baby poultry to have fresh eggs.  To prevent illness, always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching chickens, ducks, or anything in their environment.

CDC Investigation Notice:  https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/backyardpoultry-05-20/index.html

Additional Info: salmonella

CDC’s Heathy Pets Heathy People Backyard Poultry website: https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/farm-animals/backyard-poultry.html  

Updated Date:

July 29, 2020

The Illinois Department of Public Health has identified an increase in Cyclospora cases in Illinois since June 1, 2020.  As of August 5, 2020, at least 257 laboratory confirmed domestically acquired cases have been reported to IDPH among Illinois residents.  A public health investigation is being conducted to determine the source(s).

People can become infected with Cyclospora by consuming food (typically fruits and vegetables) or water contaminated with the parasite.

The most common symptom of Cyclospora infection is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms can include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, muscle aches, and low-grade fever.  Symptoms typically begin one to two weeks after exposure and can be treated with specific antibiotics.  If not treated, the illness may last from a few days to a month or longer. Symptoms may seem to go away and then return one or more times (relapse). People that are experiencing symptoms of Cyclospora should contact their health care provider for testing. 

A public health investigation is being conducted, including interviewing cases of Cyclospora to identify food exposures.  Laboratories and health care providers should report cases promptly so public health workers can interview the cases as soon as possible.

In the United States, foodborne outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have previously been linked to various types of fresh produce such as raspberries, basil, cilantro, snow peas, and lettuce.

You can learn more about Cyclospora here:  cyclospora

CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora infections linked to bagged salad mix containing iceberg lettuce, carrots, and red cabbage produced by Fresh Express. Products were sold in many states under either the brand name Fresh Express or the store brand labels ALDI Little Salad Bar, Giant Eagle, Hy-Vee, Jewel-Osco Signature Farms, ShopRite Wholesome Pantry, and Walmart Marketside.

Illinois has 206 confirmed cases of Cyclospora included in this outbreak investigation.  For additional information regarding this investigation, visit https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/cyclosporiasis/outbreaks/2020/index.html.

Updated Date:

August 6, 2020