CDC officials say, although they have not found any evidence of the outbreak or any illnesses in NJ, they are looking into instances of Salmonella that left residents sick in six other states, including one fatality. "We have not pinned down where the tainted meat is coming from".
According to the CDC, ten (10) people were infected with the outbreak strain of 'Salmonella Dublin' reported in those states.
According to the CDC, illnesses in this outbreak are more severe than expected for Salmonella and a total of 8 ill people were hospitalized, including one death reported from California.
Epidemiologic and laboratory evidence indicate that ground beef is a likely source of this outbreak. A single, common supplier of ground beef has not been identified, CDC official said.
In interviews, ill people report eating different types and brands of ground beef purchased from many different locations.
Laboratory testing identified the outbreak strain of Salmonella Dublin in repackaged leftover ground beef collected from an ill person’s home in California.
CDC is not advising that consumers stop eating thoroughly cooked ground beef, or that retailers stop selling ground beef.
Officials say always handle ground beef carefully and cook it thoroughly to prevent food poisoning. This outbreak is a reminder that raw and undercooked ground beef can have germs in it that can make you sick and can contaminate areas where food is prepared.
"This outbreak investigation is ongoing and the CDC will update the public if more information becomes available."