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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been investigating Italian meat in various parts of the United States. In 17 of those states, a total of 36 people have become ill with a salmonella outbreak.

As of this time, the CDC is asking people to heat any type of Italian-style meat to at least a 165°F internal temperature.

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Until they are able to identify which meats are making people sick, heating them in this way will help to kill the salmonella.

The CDC went on to say: “Italian-style meats include salami, prosciutto and other meats that can often be found in antipasto or charcuterie assortments. Heating food to a high enough temperature helps kill germs like Salmonella.”

Photo: flickr/Didricks

According to the CDC, individuals who are younger or over the age of 65 are at a greater risk for salmonella.

They also reported that 12 people out of the 36 who were infected ended up in the hospital. Some of the symptoms they experienced included dehydration, dizziness, fever, stomach cramps, and bloody diarrhea.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Most of the symptoms will start about six hours after the salmonella bacteria is ingested and most people will not need medical treatment and will recover within a week.