United States: Health watchdogs in San Diego have initiated a full-scale probe into a salmonella flare-up traced back to Aladdin Mediterranean Café, nestled in the Clairemont district.
The affliction emerged in patrons who dined at the establishment on April 25 and 26. Following a surge of sickness reports, county epidemiologists uncovered a cluster of 14 individuals—both lab-confirmed and probable cases—whose symptoms aligned with salmonella exposure, per San Diego County’s Environmental Health and Quality Department.
Victims ranged from young adults to senior citizens aged between 18 and 79. Alarmingly, five required hospitalization for severe manifestations of the illness, as detailed by county officials, according to Patch.
The dual-arm inquiry, led by both Environmental Health and Public Health Services, remains active. Investigators are currently dissecting possible sources of contamination. Authorities stated that no singular origin has been pinned down yet. Reinstatement of restaurant operations hinges on the final assessment proving no lingering hazard to the public.
In a proactive measure, Aladdin Mediterranean Café ceased operations voluntarily upon notification of the outbreak. This pause in service allowed health inspectors to perform comprehensive swab tests and employee interviews without interference.
Salmonella bacteria can instigate a disorder known as salmonellosis, presenting symptoms such as queasiness, emesis, loose stools—sometimes laced with blood or mucus—stomach knots, and elevated body temperature. Typically, symptoms materialize 12 to 72 hours post-ingestion of tainted fare. Recovery tends to unfold naturally over four to seven days, although complications may arise, as per Patch.
Those most vulnerable to intense salmonella-related ailments include toddlers under five, elders over sixty-five, expectant mothers, and individuals with compromised immunity.
As of April 28, the county has logged 184 salmonellosis cases across 2025. For comparison, 2024 saw 753 recorded cases, while 2023 and 2022 registered 685 and 683, respectively—reflecting a stubborn pattern of bacterial persistence.