Sushi A Possible Source of Multi-State Salmonella Outbreak

ATLANTAFederal and state regulators suspect sushi or sashimi may be the source of a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella serotype Bareilly infections that has sickened 93 people and hospitalized 10 in 19 states and the District of Columbia.

According to an investigation update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Salmonella serotype Bareilly infections have been reported in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. Illness onset dates range from Jan. 28 to March 23, 2012.

The investigation has not conclusively identified a food source; however, on initial interviews, 69% of the ill persons reported consuming sushi, sashimi or similar foods in a variety of locations in the week prior to becoming ill. The investigation into specific types of sushi is ongoing.

Investigation is ongoing into individual food items and their sources. CDC, FDA, and state and local public health partners are continuing surveillance to identify and interview other ill persons about the foods they ate.