Salmonella Outbreaks Across the U.S.: The Foods and Animals Linked to Infection

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is currently dealing with several simultaneous Salmonella outbreaks. Hundreds of people across dozens of states have already become ill, dozens have required hospitalization, and one death has also been reported. Official estimates indicate that the bacteria causes about 1.3 million infections each year, with contaminated food as the main source, though direct contact with animals can also pose a significant risk.

One of the main outbreaks is linked to eggs produced in Texas, leading to a voluntary recall of more than 15 million cartons of eggs over contamination concerns. At the same time, a widespread outbreak involving hundreds of cases has been connected to jalapeño peppers imported from Mexico and distributed to food chains and restaurants. Beyond food, hundreds of illnesses have been reported as a result of contact with backyard poultry, especially among young children.

Symptoms of infection include severe stomach pain, high fever, nausea, and vomiting, and usually appear between six hours and seven days after exposure. Dr. Eli Saada, an infectious disease specialist, explains that in most cases, the body overcomes the illness without medication. He adds that antibiotics are not universally recommended, since the medication may cause the bacteria to remain in the digestive system for a longer period and make the patient contagious for longer.

Food safety expert Dr. Haley Oliver-Gishka of Purdue University notes that a U.S. Department of Agriculture study shows that Salmonella illness rates have remained relatively stable over the past decade. She explains that the bacteria naturally exists in the bodies of many animals, and outbreaks occur when food or water becomes contaminated—especially during warmer seasons, when high temperatures encourage bacterial growth.

To avoid infection, health experts recommend thorough handwashing with soap, completely separating meat and eggs from vegetables and fruit, and fully cooking foods from animal sources. It is also recommended to promptly refrigerate cooked food and avoid unhygienic contact with poultry or animals in the yard. At this stage, there are cases of Salmonella infection in Israel, but the numbers are typical and there is no concern about an outbreak. Still, these cases can offer a reminder of what to watch out for.