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
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
Number hospitalized:17

Sources & documents

Report / reference links