More than 700 people attended the dinner, some of whom took food home. Salmonellosis, caused by salmonella bacteria, has been diagnosed in several persons who ate the food, both at home or at the club. Health officials advise that any food left over from the dinner should be thrown away and not eaten. Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that usually affects the intestinal tract, causing diarrhea and the threat of dehydration. Symptoms can include fever, mild or severe diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramping and occasional vomiting.
Infections can be particularly serious among the elderly, the frail or the very young.
The Health Department is alerting area physicians, hospitals and other health-care providers to the outbreak, and reminding them to report cases of salmonellosis. Salmonellosis is a common cause of gastroenteritis, with about 2,000 cases reported each year in Pennsylvania. Quality Assurance Copyright 2001 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. All Rights Reserved.