Idaho salmonella outbreak linked to Boise Co-op

Nearly 30 individuals testing positive for Salmonella have been reported to the Central District Health Department (CDHD) since Monday, June 8.

CDHD is currently investigating each reported Salmonella case to help determine the exact source of the illness. So far, there is a possible link to the Boise Co-op. However, other cases
not associated with the food establishment have also been detected.

CDHD is working closely with the Boise Co-op to identify how Salmonella may have entered a food source. Multiple food samples have been sent to the state public health laboratory for
testing and results are pending. Additionally, lab tests have not yet confirmed whether those involved contracted the same strain of Salmonella. More information regarding the food samples
and strain(s) is expected by late next week.

Salmonella is a bacteria that lives in the intestines of people, animals and birds. It generally causes symptoms of diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and sometimes vomiting. For the elderly,
children, and those with compromised immune systems, symptoms can be more serious. Symptoms often begin 12-72 hours after consuming contaminated food. Commonly infected
foods can include raw meat, poultry and seafood, raw eggs, fruits and vegetables.

CDHD encourages anyone who is experiencing symptoms of fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain and/or vomiting they believe could be related to something they ate, to talk to their health care
provider. Anyone who is ill with these symptoms should stay home to help prevent the spread to others. In addition, they should fill out a foodborne illness report on the CDHD website,
cdhd.idaho.gov