--  Link to Cracker Barrel Restaurant in Bourbonnais --

The Kankakee County Health Department (KCHD) and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella, a bacteria that is a common cause of food poisoning. As of May 14 th, 2024, KCHD has identified 8 individuals with Salmonella infections who ate prepared food from Cracker Barrel located on 50 Ken Hayes Dr in Bourbonnais. Cracker Barrel voluntarily closed on May 4 th, 2024 and is cooperating with KCHD to determine a source of the infections.

KCHD performed an environmental assessment of Cracker Barrel and provided guidance on safe food handling practices and environmental cleaning to prevent further spread of disease. KCHD has also issued an alert to area physicians about the outbreak, providing medical guidance.

Salmonella symptoms usually last four to seven days and most individuals recover without any treatment. Although most infections resolve without any antibiotics, older individuals or those with weakened immune systems may need medical evaluation and treatment. For those experiencing severe diarrhea, symptoms of dehydration, or a high fever, seek medical attention. Most people who are infected develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps between 6 hours and 6 days after eating contained food. For more information on Salmonella, visit https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/

94.1 WGFA