Kentucky health officials are asking for people’s patience and cooperation as they investigate the cause of 51 confirmed positive test results for Salmonella; 75 people suffering from gastrointestinal illnesses; and 11 individuals hospitalized. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention people that suffer from Salmonella often develop symptoms 12 to 72 hours after being infected such as; diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. This illness can last up to seven days and may even require hospitalization if symptoms are severe enough.
As the investigation continues to pinpoint where exactly this illness began, the restaurant owner of Eagles Roost, a sports bar in Irvine, Kentucky came forward and confirmed on local media that his restaurant is responsible for at least 19 out of the 51 illnesses. As of February 19, the restaurant has yet to reopen due to voluntarily closing for cleaning.
Judy Collins, senior regional epidemiologist, assures the public that they are doing their very best to identify all possible causes of this outbreak as quickly as possible. However, investigations such as this one require time due to many factors involved in searching for the source of the problem.
As the investigation proceeds, Collins would like to express the importance of not participating in spreading rumors. That it will only cause delay in the investigation.
Bahe Cook Cantley & Nefzger routinely handle cases arising out of food borne illness. It appears authorities have identified the source of the outbreak. Anyone infected at the source of the outbreak may have legal claims that can be pursued.