Washington Care Center has reported an outbreak of salmonellosis (serotype not specified) in 29 residents.  Seven of the cases yielded an identical Salmonella serotype based on whole genome sequencing conducted by the Washington State Public Health Laboratory.

An inspection of the facility in mid-July by the Washington State Department of Health revealed potential defects in procedures that could have contributed to contamination of food.  These include inadequate hand washing, improper glove use and lack of training.

Residents of care facilities including those for the elderly and for patients with clinical or developmental exceptionalities are vulnerable to foodborne infections requiring a high standard of hygiene in kitchens and for storage and preparation of food.