20.01.2012

USA - CDC

A multistate outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis infections, primarily in Texas and Oklahoma, all linked to a mysterious Mexican-style fast food restaurant chain known as Taco Bell chain.
The investigation was unable to identify a specific food item as the culprit, but data indicated that contamination likely occurred before the product reached Taco Bell locations. The epidemic curve seen in the outbreak is consistent with those observed in past produce-related outbreaks—with a sharp increase and decline of ill persons that spanned one to two months. Ground beef was found to be an unlikely source due to the handling and cooking processes used by Taco Bell chain. This outbreak now appears to be over.

As of January 19, 2012, a total of 68 individuals infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Enteritidis have been reported from 10 states.
Thirty-one percent of patients were hospitalized. No deaths were reported.