Salmonella Outbreak at Broome County linked to Unknown Source

New York, United States

Update June 4th, 2026:
Broome County officials reported that PCR testing identified Salmonella in a chicken salad meal served at the Broome County Correctional Facility on May 24, 2026. No other meals tested positive.

The Broome County Health Department's investigation found multiple food preparation and storage violations that may have contributed to the outbreak, including inadequate temperature monitoring, improper food storage and cooking practices, poor hand hygiene, and insufficient cleaning and sanitizing procedures. Officials noted that some of these violations had been cited previously.

Health officials also reported that 10 individuals were hospitalized during the outbreak. Eight have since been discharged, while two remain hospitalized and are receiving treatment. Additional laboratory testing is underway to determine whether the Salmonella strain detected in patients matches the strain found in the chicken salad sample.

Source: Broome County Sheriff's Office & Broome County Health Department


Update May 29th, 2026:
Health officials have confirmed 320 cases of Salmonella infection among inmates at the Broome County Correctional Facility, affecting approximately 450 incarcerated individuals.

Laboratory testing identified Salmonella in chicken salad served at the facility. Additional food samples remain under investigation. Four inmates were hospitalized for further treatment and are reported to be in stable condition. No illnesses have been reported among staff members.

The facility has completed extensive cleaning and sanitation measures. Inmate movement, which had been restricted during the outbreak response, has returned to normal.

Officials continue to investigate the source of the contamination, while testing of additional food items remains ongoing.

Source: WBNG 12 News


May 27th, 2026:
A Salmonella outbreak has been confirmed at the Broome County Correctional Facility, affecting over 300 individuals. The outbreak, identified by the Broome County Health Department, has caused symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches among the incarcerated population.

The outbreak began on May 25, 2026, when individuals at the facility reported symptoms to medical staff. Initially suspected to be norovirus, further testing confirmed the presence of Salmonella, a foodborne bacteria. The health department has implemented treatment protocols focusing on hydration and, for high-risk patients, antibiotics. The source of the outbreak is under investigation, with officials working to identify potential contamination sources.

The issue was discovered through routine testing and inspections conducted by the Broome County Health Department and the New York State Department of Health. A thorough inspection of the facility's kitchen found no major violations. Samples of meals served prior to the outbreak are being tested, and food supplies used before the outbreak are held for testing. The facility is undergoing extensive cleaning to prevent further spread. The health department is also surveying inmates to trace exposure to the bacteria.

Source: broomecountyny.gov/sites/default/files/dept/sheriff/PressReleases/5.27.26%20-%20Tests%20from%20Stomach%20Bug%20Cases%20in%20Broome%20County%20Correctional%20Facility%20Show%20Salmonella%20Infection%20.pdf
Update May 29th, 2026: www.wbng.com/2026/05/29/live-broome-county-sheriffs-office-shares-update-salmonella-outbreak-county-jail/
Update June 4th, 2026: broomecountyny.gov/sites/default/files/dept/sheriff/PressReleases/6.4.26%20-%20Broome%20County%20Sheriff%2C%20Health%20Department%20Provide%20Update%20on%20Salmonella%20Cases%20at%20the%20Broome%20County%20Correctional%20Facility.pdf