11 Victims Become Ill with Salmonella Poisoning in Montana

 Posted on June 12, 2017 in Food poisoning attorney

The Montana Department of Health and Human Services recently reported that 14 people in the state hailing from 11 different counties have become ill with salmonella poisoning, also known as Salmonellosis. More than one third of the victims are under 10 years old. This is not uncommon with food poisoning outbreaks; children and the elderly are more susceptible to food poisoning because they have weaker immune systems than healthy adults. Individuals with compromised immune systems and pregnant women are also cautioned to be especially vigilant of food poisoning hazards because of their increased risk of becoming ill.

In total, 372 people in 47 states have reportedly become ill with salmonella poisoning this year. This data comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although salmonella poisoning often resolves itself within a few days and rarely causes a victim to face prolonged suffering, it can have serious complications like endocarditis or meningitis if the infection spreads to these respective tissues. When salmonella poisoning is the result of an act of negligence, the victim can seek compensation for his or her damages through a personal injury claim.

What Causes Salmonella Poisoning?

Salmonella is a type of bacteria. It is often associated with domestic birds like chickens and ducks. The bacteria does not harm the birds, but it can cause humans to suffer from diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Many of the individuals stricken with salmonella poisoning in the Montana outbreak had recently handled ducklings and chicks, often at feed supply stores or on family farms. Individuals who interact with these and other animals, like reptiles, should wash their hands thoroughly before and after handling the animals. Salmonella can be transferred to the human body through contaminated water or food, either by the bacteria being transferred from dirty hands to the food or through the consumption of contaminated poultry. This is why poultry must be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Treating Salmonella Poisoning

For most individuals, treating salmonella poisoning requires rest and sufficient hydration. Vomiting and diarrhea, two symptoms of salmonellosis, can cause the body to lose fluid and potentially become dehydrated. The risk of dehydration is one of the main things that makes salmonellosis and other types of food poisoning dangerous. When an individual becomes dehydrated, he or she can required intravenous fluid delivery.

If your salmonella poisoning symptoms do not subside within a week, if they worsen over time, or if you have a weakened immune system, seek medical care for your condition.

Work with an Experienced Mundelein Food Poisoning Lawyer

If you or your child have suffered from salmonella poisoning and you are now facing financial damages, consider working with an experienced food poisoning lawyer to pursue monetary compensation for these damages through a personal injury claim. Contact our team at Newland & Newland, LLP today. We serve clients in the Arlington Heights, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Libertyville, Mundelein, Buffalo Grove, Schaumburg, Elk Grove, and Itasca areas.

(image courtesy of Roksolana Zasladko)