McLean County Food Poisoning Cases Linked to Jimmy John’s Restaurant

 Posted on May 03, 2021 in Food Poisoning

There are many reasons why foods served at restaurants can become contaminated by infectious diseases or other toxic substances. Workers may not follow the correct sanitary procedures, such as fully washing their hands, cleaning surfaces where foods are prepared, and ensuring that food is stored properly. These issues can result in contaminations that may cause food poisoning, and foodborne illnesses can also occur if foods are not fully cooked. The risks of food poisoning were illustrated recently in a case that took place in Bloomington, Illinois.

At Least 16 People Affected by Foodborne Illness

On April 7, 2021, the McLean County Health Department (MCHD) received reports from personnel at Illinois State University that a number of people had symptoms indicating food poisoning. The MCHD did not state how many people were affected or where the infections were believed to have occurred. However, later reports stated that at least 16 people were affected, and 15 of those were members of the university’s lacrosse team. The reports also identified a Jimmy John’s restaurant in Bloomington as the probable source of food poisoning, and this restaurant has closed while the investigation is ongoing.

The MCHD has not yet identified the specific illness that affected the restaurant’s customers. Several of the people who contracted illnesses were hospitalized due to severe vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms are consistent with food poisoning that may have been caused by bacteria or viruses such as:

• E. coli - This bacteria may be spread through undercooked ground beef or raw vegetables or sprouts.

• Salmonella - This bacteria is often found in raw or undercooked meat or poultry, eggs, and raw fruits and vegetables.

• Campylobacter - This bacteria may be spread through undercooked or raw poultry.

• Norovirus - This virus may be found in leafy greens or raw fruits.

• Listeria - This bacteria may spread through deli meats, smoked seafood, raw sprouts, or soft cheeses.

• Botulism - This toxin may be present in canned foods.

• Staphylococcus aureus - This bacteria may be spread through sliced meats that are not cooked properly.

• Clostridium perfringens - This bacteria may be present in beef or poultry.

• Cyclospora - This parasite may be found in raw fruits and vegetables or herbs.

Contact an Illinois Food Poisoning Attorney

Foodborne illnesses can not only cause a great deal of pain and discomfort, but they can also affect a person’s long-term health. At Newland & Newland, LLP, our attorneys can investigate foodborne illnesses to identify the person or parties who were responsible. If you or a member of your family have contracted a serious illness related to food served at a restaurant or purchased from a store, we will help you take the right steps to receive financial compensation that addresses the costs of your medical treatment, income lost while recovering, and pain and suffering. Contact our Illinois food poisoning injury lawyers at 312-981-0409 to arrange your free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/least-16-customers-sick-eating-130425926.html

https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/symptoms.html

https://www.pantagraph.com/business/local/watch-now-mclean-county-foodborne-illness-outbreak-being-investigated/article_69f4e8b3-84f2-52a9-ab74-fe7f673e6ebb.html