Unidentified Italian Meat Sickens Americans: 12 Hospitalized In Salmonella Outbreak

CHICAGO — Public health officials said a pair of multistate Salmonella outbreaks have been linked to Italian-style meats, including four cases of illness in Illinois.

The outbreaks have led to at least 36 illnesses and 12 hospitalizations across 17 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

One of the outbreaks involves Salmonella Typhimurium infections, while the other involves people infected with Salmonella Infantis, according to the agency.

"People in both outbreaks report eating salami, prosciutto, and other meats that can be found in antipasto or charcuterie assortments before getting sick," the CDC announced Tuesday.

Illinois has the highest number of Salmonella Typhimurium cases, with four residents confirmed to have contracted the bacterial infection, according to the CDC. Health experts say Typhimurium is the more common Salmonella subspecies and is tested for more often.

The actual number of Salmonella cases is likely much higher than the number of cases reported, because many people recover without medical intervention and without being tested for it, according to the CDC.

Public health officials say it can take three to four weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak. The most recent infection was July 27, according to a CDC timeline of the outbreak.

Symptoms of Salmonella include diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever. They usually begin within a week of exposure, according to public health officials. Most people recover without treatment after four to seven days.

Children under 5, adults aged 65 or older and people with a health condition or medication that weakens their immune system are considered at higher risk for severe illness.

Anyone who experiences diarrhea with a fever above 102 degrees for more than three days, or with blood, should call their healthcare provider right away, according to the CDC.

Last month, a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled BrightFarms salad greens packaged in Rochelle led to at least 11 illnesses and two hospitalizations, according to the CDC.

Public health officials recommended anyone at higher risk for infection ensure that their mortadella, prosciutto, pancetta, salami and soppressata is free of bacteria.

"Until we identify which Italian-style meats are making people sick," the CDC said, "heat all Italian-style meats to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot before eating if you are at higher risk."

UPDATE: The CDC said ill people reported becoming sick after eating Fratelli Beretta brand, pre-packaged uncured antipasto trays. They are sold nationwide in vacuum-sealed packages and can include uncured salami, prosciutto, coppa, or soppressata. Those with "best by" dates on or before Feb. 11, 2022, should be thrown away, public health officials said. The warning does not include Italian meats sliced at delis.