The school principals conference was held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Center on Feb. 26 and 27. Queensland Health Department officer Dr. Jeannette Young said the participants had fallen ill after returning home from the two-day meeting given by the Department of Education and Training last week.
An investigation is under way that includes going through the various menus served at the center, as well as checking to see if anyone ate outside the center. The Sunshine Coast Daily is reporting that Dr. Young has confirmed the chicken curry is under investigation. The menu in question included chicken curry, vegetables, rice, and pastry.
Dr. Young admits the outbreak in Queensland was quite large, saying “We have had large outbreaks in the past. It’s one of the largest, but I wouldn’t say at this stage it’s the largest.” Queensland usually has about 4,000 cases of Salmonella food poisoning every year.
Dr. Young also pointed out that there are no antibiotics to treat the food-borne illness, but supportive care and maintaining hydration is of prime importance. A total of 24 people were hospitalized suffering from vomiting, dehydration, and fever. Health authorities are also asking anyone who attended the conference on Feb. 26-27 and is feeling unwell to call: 13 HEALTH.
The convention center said today they will continue to source food from their regular suppliers, but has suspended the use of poultry and eggs, but despite the Salmonella outbreak, these items weren’t taken off the menu until Mar. 3. But News.com.au is reporting that up to six events were held at the center yesterday.
