2010 Outbreak of Bacillus cereus Infections at a Correctional Facility, Florida

In October 2010 an outbreak of Bacillus cereus infections occurred among inmates at the Okeechobee Correctional Institution in Florida. Inmates from the confinement dorm complained of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness shortly after consuming a meal on October 7. Food served at the meal included a texturized turkey patty, rice, beans, peas, carrots, bread, margarine, iced cake, and a fortified beverage. One hundred three (103) of the 130 inmates were ill. The Florida Bureau of Laboratories isolated Bacillus cereus in a turkey patty/rice mixture. Although no food safety violations were noted at inspection, investigators suspect the rice was improperly cooled.

Overview

Outbreak began:October 2010
Affected country:US
States/territories:FL
Pathogen:Bacillus cereus
Vehicle(s):Rice
Location(s):Correctional Facility
Brand name(s):Okeechobee Correctional Institution i
Molecular test results:no

Health impact

Total ill:103

Sources & documents

Outbreak documents