Like a good percentage of Rhode Islanders, I celebrated St. Joseph’s day with my family and Zeppole. Unfortunately, the Providence Journal is reporting that the holiday tradition caused at least 23 Rhode Islanders to become ill with salmonella. Of those 23 at least 13 required hospitalization for the illness and several remain hospitalized.
The dangerous pastries were from DeFusco’s Bakery in Johnston which has since been closed following a Rhode Island State health inspection showed that the cream was kept in unsafe or unsanitary conditions which may have led to the salmonella outbreak. DeFusco’s products are also sold and distributed in several other bakeries including Crugnale, Calvitto’s, and Sal’s Bakeries.
Salmonella is a foodborne illness that can begin to show symptoms a few days after infection. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dehydration and diarrhea, among others. An infection, if untreated, can be extremely dangerous and anyone who feels they may have been infected should contact a doctor immediately and the Rhode Island Department of Health.
Anyone injured by this foodborne illness, or another, is entitled to personal injury benefits, including medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. If you or a family member has been sickened or hospitalized because of this outbreak of salmonella, contact Attorney Joseph Lamy right away to protect your rights.
There may be a number of defendants involved in a foodborne illness case and they can become quite complicated. It is important to work with an attorney early on in the process. My office has experience representing those who have been sickened by a foodborne illness. Contact our office today for a free consultation.