2002-2003 Outbreak of Campylobacteriosis at a State Penitentiary, Washington
Five outbreak clusters of Campylobacter jejuni occurred between March, 2002, and March, 2003, at the Washington State Penitentiary, in Walla Walla, Washington. Staff and inmates became ill. Over one-hundred persons tested positive with an identical strain of Campylobacter jejuni. The investigation identified a causal connection between a drain contaminated with pigeon feces on the roof and a leaking, uncapped, pipe in the kitchen salad preparation area. Other potential or specific causes of the contamination, including poor food-handling practices, were also documented as part of the investigation.
Overview
| Outbreak began: | March 2002 |
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| Affected country: | US |
| States/territories: | WA |
| Pathogen: | Campylobacter |
| Vehicle(s): | Cross Contamination |
| Location(s): | Prison |
| Brand name(s): | Washington State Penitentiary |
| Molecular test results: | Not reported |
Health impact
| Total ill: | 103 |
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| Number hospitalized: | 17 |
Sources & documents
| Report / reference links | ||
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