Salmonella Strikes: 10 Sick in Illinois, Health Officials Say

Health officials are currently investigating a salmonella outbreak after ten people got sick eating at a restaurant in Illinois earlier this month.

Since May 23rd, 2025, Illinois health officials, including Coles County Health Department have been working to track down anyone who became sick after eating at Cracker Barrel in Mattoon, Illinois.

On the 23rd, the restaurant voluntarily closed to "deep clean" while officials continue to figure out the source of the contamination.  As of right now, no specific dish or item was singled out, but officials are attempting to keep the community safe by preventing these kinds of outbreaks.

What is salmonella poisoning & how can I protect myself?

"Salmonella, or salmonellosis, is an infection with Salmonella bacteria that causes diarrhea, fever and stomach pains. Salmonella usually goes away on its own in a few days. You should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. You can reduce your risk of salmonella with safe food handling habits and by washing your hands after touching animals." [clevelandclinic]

Potential symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Stomach pains or cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache

Read More: Illinois Seeing Surge of These 4 Viruses, Health Officials Say 

Read More: Illinois Measles Cases Rise: What You Need To Know

If you have any of these symptoms, or your entire party got sick after eating at a restaurant, contact your local health department to make them aware of the situation.

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This isn't the first Cracker Barrel that has been linked to salmonella outbreaks.  A few other locations around the state have seen outbreaks recently, with a handful of people getting sick.  To keep up with salmonella outbreaks near you, follow your local health officials' sites to stay in-the-know.