Patient Stories: Was It Something I Ate?

Was it something I ate?

These people got sick with infections that came from food or animal contact. Watch or read their stories to learn how they got sick and what they’re doing now to stay safe.

Harlee hiking

E. coli Illness Linked to Cake Batter: Harlee’s Story

When Harlee first started experiencing stomach pain, her mom, Errin, didn’t think it was anything serious. But the pain got worse, becoming so severe that Harlee had to go to the hospital. Errin was desperate to get help for her daughter.

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Photo of AJ and his mother

Salmonella Illness Linked to Chicken: AJ’s Story

AJ’s parents thought he had a cold. But after his fever spiked, his doctor did some tests. Within 24 hours, AJ’s mother, Jennifer, got a phone call: AJ needed to be admitted to the hospital right away.

Watch the video (2:19 minutes)
View video transcript   Low-resolution video   Short version (0:50 seconds)

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Photo of Tyler and his mother

Baby Chicks and Salmonella: Tyler’s Story

Tyler loved to hold his family’s baby chickens. But an infection linked to the chicks made him sick for several weeks. His parents wondered if their fun-loving boy would ever be himself again.

Watch the video (3:44 minutes)
View video transcript   Low-resolution video   Short version (0:47 seconds)

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Photo of Dr. Megin Nichols

Sick Kids, Dairy Calves, and Antibiotics That Don’t Work: Dr. Megin Nichols’s Story

CDC veterinarian Megin Nichols investigates outbreaks of Salmonella infections linked to petting zoos, small turtles, and livestock. Get her tips for staying healthy around animals.

Watch the video (2:52 minutes)
View video transcript   Low-resolution video   Short version (0:40 seconds)

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