Aladdin Café Salmonella: 36% Hospitalization Rate Alarms Officials

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1. Salmonella outbreak at Clairemont's Aladdin Mediterranean Café has sickened 14 people and sent 5 to the hospital.

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People fell ill after eating at the Clairemont Mesa Boulevard location between April 25-26, 2025.

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The hospitalization rate is 36%—nearly triple the national average for Salmonella cases.

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One telling clue? A 79-year-old woman was hospitalized after eating chicken, while her companions who skipped the chicken stayed healthy.

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What did the restaurant claim caused their closure? A "water heater issue"—not mentioning the outbreak investigation.

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Health inspectors are now collecting samples from food surfaces, utensils, and hand-washing stations.

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Symptoms typically appear 12-72 hours after exposure and include nausea, vomiting, cramps, and sometimes bloody diarrhea.

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Most people recover within 4-7 days, but Salmonella can be dangerous for children under 5, seniors over 65, and those with weakened immune systems.

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San Diego County has recorded 184 salmonellosis cases so far in 2025—part of the CDC's estimated 1.35 million annual U.S. cases.

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The CDC's prevention framework is simple but effective: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

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Want to check a restaurant's safety record before dining? San Diego County's Food Info portal has inspection grades for all establishments.

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