OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said six incarcerated men at the Lincoln Correctional Center (LCC) became infected with salmonella on or around Nov. 22.
Others also became sick near that time period with similar symptoms but weren't tested.
Those impacted are recovering from their symptoms.
Dr. Harbans Deol, medical director at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, said it's likely that the individuals consumed something, causing them to become ill.
Two individuals were taken to an outside hospital for treatment.
“Salmonella is one of those medical conditions that affects people in a multitude of ways,” explained Dr. Deol. “Some individuals will have no symptoms at all or will only have a mild reaction. However, the bacterial infection can be more severe in those who already have compromised immune systems.”
Dr. Deol adds two of the men who went to the hospital had compromised immune systems; however, only one was admitted to the hospital.
“We may never be able to pinpoint the exact source of the salmonella,” said NDCS Director Scott R. Frakes. “Whatever food was consumed is long gone.”
Director Frakes said the illness impacted only those living at LCC and most of the patients were from one particular housing unit.
“Despite the fact that food service operations are shared between LCC and the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center (DEC), no one on the DEC side became ill. That indicates to us it was not a food item that was served to everyone. Rather, it seems this was an isolated food item, possibly hidden away by some individuals, which was not properly stored and then was eaten,” said Director Frakes.
The most recent person to show symptoms was on Dec. 6. No staff members have reported any illnesses.
