from Allamakee County Public Health
In northeast Iowa we are always glad to see the coming warm months of spring and summer. Unfortunately, with that warmer weather we also see an increase in foodborne illnesses.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), foodborne illness affects 48 million Americans, causes 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths annually. Anyone, regardless of race, age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, is at risk. Fortunately, most foodborne illnesses are self-limiting; however, they cost our nation millions in lost productivity, medical, and legal expenses.