Salmonella Outbreak linked to Raw Turkey Products

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is updating its investigation into a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to raw turkey products. Since July 19, 2018, 74 more ill people have been reported, bringing the total to 164 ill people from 35 states. Sixty-three people have been hospitalized. One death was reported from California. Illnesses in this outbreak started on Nov. 20, 2017 to Oct. 20, 2018. Laboratory evidence indicates that raw turkey products from a variety of sources are contaminated with Salmonella Reading and are making people sick. The outbreak strain of Salmonella Reading has been identified in various raw turkey products, including ground turkey and turkey patties. The outbreak strain has also been found in raw turkey pet food and live turkeys, indicating it might be widespread in the turkey industry. A single, common supplier of raw turkey products or of live turkeys has not been identified. The CDC has shared this information with representatives from the turkey industry and asked about steps that they may be taking to reduce Salmonella contamination. This investigation is ongoing and CDC will provide more information as it becomes available.