There has been an outbreak of Salmonella food poisoning at the Blue Hill Care Center in Blue Hill, Nebraska. The Center offers skilled nursing, adult day care, Alzheimer’s support services, and in-house rehabilitation. The South Heartland District Health Department is investigating the outbreak in Webster county. There is no word on the serotype of Salmonella that caused the outbreak, or the possible method of transmission.
To date there have been 17 confirmed cases and 2 probable cases of salmonellosis, the illness caused by the Salmonella bacteria. Four residents were hospitalized temporarily, and a visitor to the Center is still hospitalized. The Center is cooperating with public health officials to help identify the source of the outbreak.
Salmonellosis is caused by Salmonella bacteria, which live in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals. It’s usually spread by eating contaminated food, but it can also be contracted by contact with animals. Everything from beef, poultry, eggs, vegetables, and fruit can be contaminated with the bacteria. The symptoms of Salmonella food poisoning include fever, diarrhea, and intestinal cramps.
If you or anyone you know visited the Center and is experiencing the symptoms of salmonellosis, please contact the South Heartland District Health Department at 1-877-238-7595. Most people recover without hospitalization, but a Salmonella infection can cause complications, including reactive arthritis, that can last for years. Some patients, especially those in high risk groups such as the very young, the elderly, those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses, can suffer serious complications that require hospitalization.