Investigators with Public Health — Seattle & King County are investigating two cases of campylobacteriosis linked to a private party held June 24 at a restaurant in Kirkland, Wash.
The sickened individuals shared multiple food items, including foie gras, which has been traced to previous campylobacteriosis outbreaks. Health officials learned about the second case of campylobacteriosis after an interview with an ill individual who tested positive for Campylobacter bacteria. Health officials confirmed the second illness on Aug. 16. Health inspectors visited the restaurant, Café Juanita, on Aug. 17.
"During the field inspection, inspectors observed the cooking process and checked the final cooking temperature of the foie gras," said the department in a public health alert posted online Thursday. "Although it reached a safe temperature during the inspection, workers had not been using a thermometer. They were instructed to use a food thermometer to ensure that all foods are reaching the correct temperatures to kill harmful bacteria that may be present."
Campylobacteriosis is an infectious disease caused by Campylobacter bacteria. Most sickened individuals experience diarrhea, cramping, abdominal pain and fever within two to five days after bacterial exposure. The diarrhea may be bloody. The illness normally lasts about a week.
To learn more about campylobacteriosis, click here.
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