Los Angeles Salmonella Attorney

Salmonella is a genus of bacteria that can cause illness in humans, typically through the consumption of contaminated food or water. These bacteria are rod-shaped and gram-negative, known for being a common cause of foodborne illness. There are over 2,500 different serotypes of Salmonella, with the most common ones affecting humans being Salmonella enterica and Salmonella bongori.

How Does Salmonella Spread?

Salmonella spreads through the fecal-oral route, meaning it is often transmitted through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with animal or human feces. This can happen in various ways:

• Contaminated Produce: When crops are irrigated with water that has been contaminated with fecal matter.
• Raw Meat: If animals have fecal matter on their skin or in their intestines at the time of slaughter, the bacteria can be transferred to the meat.
• Eggs: Eggs can be contaminated if they come from infected birds or if their shells come into contact with fecal matter.

Unhygienic food practices and the use of dirty equipment during food processing, distribution, or preparation can also spread Salmonella. For example, if someone cracks eggs for an omelet, gets yolk on their hands, and doesn’t wash them before handling other ingredients, they can contaminate the entire dish. Proper hygiene and food handling practices are crucial to prevent the spread of Salmonella.

Symptoms of Salmonella Infection

Symptoms of a Salmonella infection, known as salmonellosis, typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after infection and can include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Muscle pain

Most infections are mild and resolve without treatment within a week, but severe cases can lead to dehydration and require hospitalization, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Los Angeles Salmonella Statistics

In the years 2011-2021, there have been 299 salmonella outbreaks impacting California residents, infecting 20523 individuals throughout the United States. Of those, 4422 required hospitalization, and 27 people died as a result of the outbreaks. 95 of those outbreaks were confined to the state of California and its residents.

In recent years, (since 2020), California has had salmonella outbreaks due to:

• Charcuterie Meats
• Cantaloupes
• Raw Cookie Dough
• Flour
• Salami Sticks
• Seafood
• Onions
• Italian-Style Meats
• Jule’s Cashew Brie
• Wood Ear Mushrooms
• Peaches

Steps to Take if You Suspect a Salmonella Infection

If you think you may have a Salmonella infection, it’s important to take immediate and appropriate actions to manage your symptoms and prevent the spread of the bacteria. Follow these steps:

Seek Medical Attention

Particularly if you experience severe symptoms or belong to a high-risk group (such as young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, or those with weakened immune systems), it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Severe symptoms can include persistent high fever, severe dehydration, prolonged diarrhea, blood in stools, or signs of sepsis (such as rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing). A healthcare professional can perform diagnostic tests, such as stool cultures, to confirm the presence of Salmonella and provide appropriate treatment.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, which is a common complication of Salmonella infection due to vomiting and diarrhea. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are particularly effective as they replace lost electrolytes as well as fluids. In mild cases, clear fluids such as water, broth, and oral rehydration drinks are recommended. Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, or sugary drinks, as they can worsen dehydration.

Avoid Preparing Food for Others

To prevent spreading the infection, avoid preparing food for others while you are symptomatic. Salmonella can be easily transmitted through contaminated food and surfaces. Ensure that anyone who shares your living space practices good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

Possible Compensation

Look for a lawyer who specializes in foodborne illness cases. They will understand the complexities of such salmonella lawsuit cases and be able to guide you through the legal process. Many lawyers offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and determine its viability.

The Lange Law Firm will work with you to try to recover the following types of compensation:

• Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for all related medical costs, including hospitalization, medications, and follow-up treatments.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work while recovering.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter future misconduct

Get in Touch

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a salmonella infection, you deserve justice and support. The Lange Law Firm specializes in food safety cases and is here to help you navigate this challenging time. Don’t wait – reach out to us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Contact The Lange Law Firm now for a free consultation, and let us fight for your rights. Your health and safety are our top priority. Call (833) 330-3663 or message us online today to arrange your free consultation.