Salmonella Outbreak Impacts Nearly 1,000 in 40 States

Liz Perry for Leaders in Healthcare – July 7, 2008

As of July 4, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 943 persons infected with Salmonella Saintpaul. The outbreak, heavily linked to consumption of raw tomatoes, has affected patients in 40 states. According to the CDC, those infected were identified through processes in which clinical laboratories in all states sent Salmonella strains from ill persons to their state public health laboratories for characterization. The first cases were reported in April.

Identifying the number infected and linking this outbreak to its cause has required the work of thousands of public health workers across the country. As aging public health officials reach retirement, a drastic shortage in public healthcare workers is expected. If this deems true, the nation may not be equipped to adequately handle outbreaks such as these.

Due to this shortage, there is a strong need for public health professionals. Particularly desirable to employers are those possessing Master of Public Health degrees and extensive hands-on healthcare experience.