Mexico investigates possible responsibility for salmonella outbreak at General Hospital

Mexico’s Secretariat for Anti-Corruption and Good Government is investigating possible administrative responsibility after a salmonella outbreak affected resident doctors at the General Hospital of Mexico.

The investigation began on Sept. 3 after reports that resident doctors developed gastrointestinal symptoms, with some requiring hospital care. Authorities have requested information on the number of people affected, their medical progress, the measures taken and the epidemiological studies conducted.

The hospital reported an outbreak of acute infectious gastroenteritis caused by salmonella that affected 135 resident and advanced-specialty doctors. Forty-one were hospitalized for monitoring and treatment, but all were stable and receiving medical care. The event was identified on Aug. 31 after a sudden increase in abdominal pain, diarrhea, mild fever and vomiting.

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The cafeteria has remained closed since September 1 while investigations continue.

A verification visit on Sept. 4 collected documents, testimonies and evidence and reviewed how food was received, stored, prepared and distributed. Officials also examined compliance with applicable health measures. The cafeteria has remained closed since Sept. 1.

The anti-corruption authority said the investigation is still being assembled, with laboratory results and further information pending. It said there is no definitive determination yet about the cause of the outbreak or possible responsibility by public servants. The Health Ministry’s internal control body is also examining the potential responsibility of the private company operating the cafeteria service. Health Secretary David Kershenobich said he ordered epidemiological and health-risk agencies to act.

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At this time there is no definitive determination about the cause of the incident or about possible responsibility by public servants.