State and local health officials are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella infections involving patrons of Cilantro Fresh Mexican Grill, a restaurant at 1158 Whalley Ave. in New Haven, Connecticut.

Image/National Atlas of the United States
Image/National Atlas of the United States

Cilantro’s owner is cooperating with public health officials and has voluntarily closed the restaurant while the investigation is conducted.

Salmonella bacteria are one of the most common causes of food poisoning in the United States.  Symptoms typically last for four to seven days, and most people get better without treatment.  However, Salmonella can cause more serious illness in certain groups of people, including the elderly, infants and persons with chronic diseases or compromised immune systems.

Salmonella bacteria spread through contaminated food or water.  An individual who is sickened with Salmonella can contaminate food and water, spreading the bacteria to others.  People who are infected with Salmonella should not prepare food or drinks for others until their symptoms have ended.  Restaurant workers and other food handlers who are infected with Salmonella should not return to work until cleared by public health officials.

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