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State investigation links foodborne
outbreak to consumption of peas October 09, 2008 Source of Article: http://www.sitnews.us/1008news/100908/100908_outbreak.html
"Molecular studies demonstrated
that there was a match between Campylobacter bacteria obtained from
sick people and those obtained from pea and Sandhill
Crane samples taken from the farm in Palmer," said Dr. Tracie Gardner,
an epidemiologist with the Alaska Division of Public Health. To date, the investigation has
identified 99 people sickened by the bacteria who reported eating raw peas
within 10 days of illness onset. Fifty-four had laboratory confirmation of
illness. Five were hospitalized. None have died. Investigation revealed a lack of
chlorine in the water used to wash the peas at the farm. State officials are
working with the farm to implement future control measures. Common symptoms of Campylobacter
infection include diarrhea that is often bloody, abdominal pain, weakness,
fever, nausea and vomiting. Onset of the illness occurs two to five days
after exposure and symptoms usually continue for up to one week. Prolonged
illness and relapses may also occur in adults. Some cases may mimic acute
appendicitis or inflammatory bowel disease. Most people infected with Campylobacter
recover without any specific treatment. People experiencing symptoms should drink
extra fluids and consult with their health care provider. The Alaska Section of Epidemiology
requests that anyone who experienced diarrhea after eating Alaska-grown peas
since August 1 to call 1-877-469-8067 to report their illness. Source of News: Alaska Department of Health &
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