An outbreak of salmonella is responsible for illnesses reported in 26 states including Colorado.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Salmonella Reading outbreak has been linked to raw turkey products. The products are from a variety of types of raw turkey products, brands, sources and locations. No single supplier has been identified.

A total of 90 people, including three in Colorado, are believed to have been infected from raw turkey products including those found in pet food. There have been no deaths reported, but 40 people have been hospitalized.

The CDC is not advising people stop eating cooked turkey products or that stores stop selling raw turkey. They do advise people who purchase uncooked turkey take the following precautions to avoid illness.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly as Salmonella can pass from one person to another.
  • Cook raw turkey thoroughly to kill germs. This means cooking until the turkey is at least 165 degrees farenheit.
  • Avoid spreading germs from raw turkey around food areas. It is not recommended to rinse poultry as this can quickly spread germs to other areas. Also, thoroughly clean prep area, utensils, cutting boards, and other items used on any raw meat. Always use a separate cutting board for raw meat.
  • The CDC advises against raw pet food diets. Feeding raw turkey to a pet can make them sick and expose you to the germs.

There has also been one case of Salmonella in Colorado linked to the consumption of Kellogg's Honey Smacks cereal. The cereal was recalled in June, but cases are still being reported from cereal purchased before the recall. If you have the cereal, throw it away or return it to the store where it was purchased.

People infected with Salmonella usually exhibit symptoms from 12 to 72 hours after infection. Typical symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. Severe cases may require hospitalization. See your doctor if symptoms worsen or persist more than a few days.

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