Don’t get food poisoning this Fourth of July. Here’s how to stay safe
Every year around the Fourth of July, warnings abound about firework safety and the dangers of too much alcohol. On June 17, however, the Sacramento County Public Health (SCPH) and the Sacramento County Environmental Management Department (EMD) released a statement cautioning people on summer food safety.
Sacramento County has been seeing a surge in campylobacter infections. A common cause of foodborne illness, campylobacter bacteria is often found in raw chicken, unpasteurized dairy products and water contaminated by infected cows or birds, according to the news release.
“Recent increases in Campylobacter infections serve as a reminder that food safety matters,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Phuong Luu. “A few simple food safety steps can help prevent illness and keep summer memories focused on the people and moments that matter most.”
How do people get food poisoning?
Campylobacter bacteria and other causes of foodborne illness often result from eating undercooked poultry or food contaminated by raw poultry. Whether barbecuing chicken on a grill or on a stove, have a food thermometer on hand. The chicken should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F, said the SCPH and EMD.
Watch out for cross contamination. Bacteria from cutting boards, plates, and knives in contact with infected chicken can spread to other foods. Washing contaminated kitchenware before using them for other dishes can keep dangerous bacteria at bay.
The statement also recommended keeping meat products refrigerated, avoiding unpasteurized dairy, and not drinking untreated water, such as water from a stream. “Keeping food at safe temperatures and preventing cross-contamination are small steps that can prevent illness and help people enjoy their summer season,” said Jennea Monasterio, Director of the Sacramento County Environmental Management Department. The departments also recommend regular hand-washing, especially after touching animals, changing diapers, and using the bathroom.
What are the symptoms of food poisoning?
According to the California Department of Public Health, food poisoning from campylobacter bacteria, or campylobacteriosis, can manifest as nausea, diarrhea, cramps, and fever. Symptoms won’t show up immediately, and can take two to five days to appear. Most of the time, noted the CDPH, antibiotics are not necessary for recovery. Symptoms, however, can last for up to a week.
It’s important to note, however, that adults and children with diarrhea from campylobacteriosis are advised not to go to school, day care, or work in order not to spread the illness to others. Children and adults are also advised not to go into swimming pools if they have diarrhea.
When doctors diagnose campylobacteriosis, it’s typically through a fecal sample examined in a laboratory. Doctors are required to report cases of campylobacteriosis to the health department to monitor outbreaks and its spread. The CDPH estimates that around 200,000 Californians contract campylobacteriosis every year.
This story was originally published July 4, 2026 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Don’t get food poisoning this Fourth of July. Here’s how to stay safe."
