Iowa health officials investigating possible salmonella outbreak

The Iowa Department of Public Health is investigating a possible salmonella outbreak in Eastern Iowa.

State epidemiologist Dr. Patricia Quinlisk said 11 salmonella cases were reported in multiple Eastern Iowa counties since last month.

“Nothing so far links the people,” she said.

Most of those affected were adults.

Salmonella, which can cause diarrhea, fever and sometimes vomiting, often is foodborne.

One of the most notable outbreaks, traced to peanut products, occurred last year in the United States.

Animals can also spread the disease.

Quinlisk said the salmonella Newport under investigation hasn't been linked to any particular event, food or animals.

Patients are usually sick for three to five days and typically recover.

One of the 11 patients had a secondary complication of Reiter's syndrome or reactive arthritis.

Quinlisk said a doctor astutely recognized the syndrome, evidenced by conjunctivitis, urethritis and reactive arthritis.

Clinicians can remember the syndrome by its symptoms: “the patient can't see, can't pee and can't climb a tree,” according to the department.

“It's pretty rare, but it can happen,” Quinlisk said.