Health Scare At Longhorn Steakhouse: Over 60 Customers Affected By Outbreak

Things aren't looking good for Longhorn Steakhouse and one of their locations in Illinois. More than 60 customers reported a stomach illness, and nine of those individuals were hospitalized. This alarming situation has raised serious concerns regarding food safety and health protocols at the restaurant.

Reports indicate that patrons of this specific Longhorn Steakhouse in Fairview Heights, Illinois, are suffering from a Shigella infection. A quick search on the internet reveals one word that everyone dreads: diarrhea. This highly contagious bacterial infection can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, and it is particularly concerning when multiple cases arise from a single establishment.

According to a news release from the St. Clair County Health Department, after dining at this Longhorn Steakhouse location, 24 people tested positive for Shigella, and an additional 44 reported related illnesses. Among those affected, the age range spans from 12 to 80 years old, highlighting that anyone can be susceptible to foodborne illnesses.

The Longhorn Steakhouse at this location has taken the precautionary measure of voluntarily closing its doors for a thorough cleaning and employee retraining. Health officials are working diligently to pinpoint the source of this outbreak and ensure that proper safety protocols are implemented to prevent future incidents.

As part of the reopening process, every employee must provide two negative Shigella tests, spaced more than 24 hours apart. This stringent requirement reflects the seriousness of the situation and the restaurant's commitment to customer safety. As test results continue to come in, there is a possibility that the outbreak may expand, prompting local physicians to be alerted about the situation.

Foodborne illnesses are no joke and should be treated with the utmost seriousness. A recent listeria outbreak at a Boars Head facility resulted in nine tragic deaths, underscoring the potential consequences of inadequate food safety measures. It is still uncertain what repercussions Longhorn Steakhouse may face, but it’s likely that lawsuits will follow as many affected individuals seek justice.