Contaminated Chicken Blamed for 1 Death and 11 Illnesses in NY

The USDA and Center for Disease Control report a Salmonella Outbreak in raw chicken have led to 17 reported illnesses in 4 Northeast states, including one death in New York. salm

While there hasn't been an official recall, officials say most of those reporting the illness had recently consumed Empire Kosher Chicken. The investigation is still in progress but the CDC identified Salmonella in samples of raw chicken collected from two facilities, including one that processes Empire Kosher brand chicken.

The bacteria was found in packages of whole chicken and chicken parts produced and sold between September 2017 and June 2018. To date, 11 New York cases have been reported. As the investigation continues the CDC suggest following these food safety guidelines whenever you're are handling raw chicken.

Place chicken in a disposable bag before putting in your shopping cart or refrigerator to prevent raw juices from getting onto other foods.
Wash hands with warm soapy water for 20 seconds before and after handling chicken.
Do not wash raw chicken. Chicken juices can spread in the kitchen and contaminate other foods, utensils, and countertops.
Use a separate cutting board for raw chicken.
Never place cooked food or fresh produce on a plate, cutting board, or other surfaces that previously held raw chicken.
Wash cutting boards, utensils, dishes, and countertops with hot soapy water after preparing chicken and before you prepare the next item.
Use a food thermometer to make sure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Refrigerate or freeze leftover chicken within 2 hours (or within 1 hour if the temperature outside is higher than 90°F).

You can keep up to date as the investigation continues at the CDC's website.