The CDC investigation continues into Salmonella Heidelberg infections likely related to Foster Farms chicken.

As of 22 May 2014, a total of 574 persons infected with seven outbreak strains of Salmonella Heidelberg have been reported from 27 states and Puerto Rico since 1 March 2013.

CDC reports 37 per cent of ill persons have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported. Most ill persons (77 per cent) have been reported from California.

Epidemiologic, laboratory and trace-back investigations conducted by local, state and federal officials indicate that consumption of Foster Farms brand chicken is the likely source of this outbreak of Salmonella Heidelberg infections.

The outbreak strains of Salmonella Heidelberg are resistant to several commonly prescribed antibiotics. Although these antibiotics are not typically used to treat Salmonella bloodstream infections or other severe Salmonella infections, antibiotic resistance can be associated with increased risk of hospitalisation in infected individuals.

It is not unusual for raw poultry from any producer to have Salmonella bacteria. CDC and USDA-FSIS recommend consumers follow food safety tips to prevent Salmonella infection from raw poultry produced by Foster Farms or any other brand.