Chicago Salmonella Attorney

When a salmonella infection occurs due to contaminated food or water, the consequences can be severe, leading to hospitalization, long-term health complications, and in some cases, death. If you or a loved one has been affected by a salmonella outbreak, The Lange Law Firm, PLLC can help you seek justice and obtain compensation for your losses.

Common Sources of Salmonella Outbreaks

Salmonella outbreaks often occur when food or water is improperly handled or contaminated during preparation. Some common sources of salmonella infection include:

• Raw or Undercooked Eggs and Poultry: Poultry, such as chicken and turkey, and eggs that are not thoroughly cooked.
• Contaminated Fresh Produce: Leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables can be contaminated through unclean irrigation water or improper handling practices during production and distribution.
• Unpasteurized Dairy Products: Raw milk and cheeses that have not been pasteurized may carry salmonella if they come from infected animals.
• Processed Foods: Contamination can occur during the manufacturing process, affecting products like peanut butter, pre-packaged meals, and frozen foods.
• Cross-Contamination: Using unclean utensils, cutting boards, or surfaces for both raw meats and other foods.
• Contact with Infected Animals: Handling animals such as reptiles or visiting petting zoos can also result in exposure to salmonella bacteria.

Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning

Symptoms of salmonella poisoning typically develop between 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and may last up to a week. You may experience:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Abdominal Cramps
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Headaches and Chills

While most individuals recover without medical treatment, salmonella can be particularly dangerous for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Severe cases may require hospitalization, and in rare situations, the infection can be life-threatening.

Recent Salmonella Outbreaks

Salmonella outbreaks are a continuing public health concern across the U.S., including in Chicago. Some notable recent outbreaks include:

Cucumbers (2024)

A salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated cucumbers affected 449 people across 31 states, leading to 125 hospitalizations (FDA).

Raw Milk (2024)

An outbreak involving raw milk sickened at least 165 people, making it one of the largest outbreaks linked to raw milk in recent years (CDF).

Backyard Poultry (2024)

A multistate outbreak related to contact with backyard poultry affected 195 people across 38 states, with many cases linked to hatcheries (CDC)​.

Flour (2023)

An outbreak linked to contaminated flour resulted in 14 cases across 13 states (FDA).

Onions (2023)

Contaminated onions led to 80 illnesses across 23 states, with 18 hospitalizations and one death (CDC).

How a Chicago Salmonella Attorney Can Help

When salmonella poisoning occurs due to negligence, a Chicago salmonella attorney can help you hold the responsible parties accountable. An experienced lawyer can assist by:

• Investigating the Source of Contamination: A Chicago salmonella attorney will have the resources to thoroughly investigate the outbreak, identifying the source of contamination and the parties responsible, such as restaurants, food manufacturers, or grocery stores.
• Building a Strong Case: They will gather evidence, including medical records, inspection reports, and expert testimony, to support your claim.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: A Chicago salmonella lawyer will handle all communications with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Representing You in Court: If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to fight for you in court.

Speak To a Chicago Salmonella Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been affected by salmonella poisoning, our dedicated Chicago Salmonella Attorney can help you navigate the complexities of foodborne illness claims.  Contact us today for a free consultation by calling (833) 330-3663 or filling out our online form.