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Over 100 salmonella cases linked to IHOP
Posted: 09.26.2008 at 3:50 PM
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Someone intentionally hurting customers?

Read more: Local, Health

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In the span of five months, between May and September , over 100 cases of salmonella have been linked back to the IHOP restaurant at I-40 and Western Street this year.

Today, health investigators say the salmonella strain is a rare one and have called in police to help.

Doctor Rush Pierce, with the city of Amarillo, says in the first two investigations they determined the salmonella is a Group C.

Group C is a strain that researchers and health officials hardly ever see and it's so powerful it clings to surfaces and is more resistant to disinfection.

Pierce believes the third round of cases could be the same strain. Knowing that, Pierce says the salmonella could be coming from inside the IHOP and it's possible someone could intentionally be harming customers.

"We've asked law enforcement to look into this situation" said Pierce. "The Amarillo Police Department is involved in our investigation. We've been in contact with our regional and state health departments."

Doctor Pierce says they are exploring all option as to why this keeps happening, but for now the restaurant will remain closed.

It is important to note that the IHOP at I-40 and Ross is not involved in this investigation in any way.