Salmonella thrives in warm weather and every summer many restaurant goers fall sick. Is the weather the only factor, or are there other factors responsible for the summer outbreak of food poisoning? Possible culprits include unhygienic food handling practices and inadequate storage. Recently in Jizan, 217 people fell ill after eating at a cafeteria that was subsequently closed down by the authorities, along with all of the proprietor's other branches. Test reports that revealed that the outlet's tomatoes were contaminated were sent to the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs about a month ago. However, no decision has yet been taken against the cafe except for a notice posted on the front door of the café by the Environmental Health Department of Jizan's Mayor's Office that reads, “Closed for Violating Instructions”. However, a spokesman for the Mayor's Office, Abdulrahman Al-Saheli, said further action that could be taken by the ministry includes permanent closure, the naming and shaming of the owner and his failings, and a fine of SR1,000 per victim. Dr. Muhammad Hashem Al-Futawi, Director General of Environmental Health in Makkah, said food poisoning is a food-borne illness caused by the transfer of bacteria from food to the body. Its symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and a high temperature. Hot weather, the improper movement and display of food, can all be the factors, he said, adding that it was very important that all workers handling food wear gloves and cover their heads. Food poisoning can also be caused by viruses like the flu, lack of personal hygiene and for example, using a meat knife to cut vegetables. __
