Early tests show salmonella outbreak from pork linked to Graham slaughter facility

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington state health officials say a salmonella outbreak linked to pork products has grown to 134 cases in 10 counties.

Early tests show a connection to a slaughter facility in Graham, Washington.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has joined the state health department in its investigation into the outbreak. People eating pork are advised to cook it thoroughly.

Most of the illnesses -- 84 cases -- were in King County, while 24 cases were found in Snohomish county, 12 in Pierce County and five in Yakima County.

Health officials say exposure for many of the people who became ill was whole roasted pigs served at private events and restaurants.

Samples were collected at Kapowsin Meats slaughter facility in Graham last week, the state Department of Health said. "Testing confirms the outbreak strain was present," it added.

The business, which is regulated by the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service, has cooperated with the investigation. There may be other sources, the state health department said, and disease investigators are searching for the origin of the Salmonella bacteria in the outbreak.

Exposure to salmonella bacteria can cause fever, abdominal discomfort and vomiting.