Food Poisoning outbreak in Canberra

So far 13 people have been confirmed as having gastroenteritis due to Salmonella in Canberra, since the 25 November and more are expected. Of these, five have been hospitalised to date to assist with dehydration.

Testing has identified that a mayonnaise made from raw eggs used at a bakery is the likely source of the outbreak. Other testing is also being undertaken.

According to the ACT Chief Minister, there are usually up to 100 cases of Salmonella food poisoning in the ACT between November and April, so with this outbreak, the territory is well on it’s way to meeting this.

Salmonella species are easily killed by heat so gastroenteritis from them is often spread via undercooked foods or through cross contamination of foods / surfaces and from person to person.

Salmonella is one of the leading cause of food borne illness in Australia.

The following are the basic ways to prevent Salmonella issues in food businesses;

• Keeping all surfaces cleaned and sanitised
• Good staff hygiene
• Good and regular hand washing
• Keeping hot foods above 60C
• Keeping cold foods below 5C
• Check temperatures and keep records