El Sombrero, located at 314 Lincoln Avenue in Fox River Grove, has been identified as the site of a salmonella outbreak, health officials said. | Photo: Tom Pascente via Google Maps.

The health department said that El Sombrero, a Mexican restaurant in Fox River Grove, is temporarily closed after a foodborne illness outbreak caused by salmonella was identified.

The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) said in a statement that they identified a “foodborne illness outbreak of a gastrointestinal illness caused by Salmonella” at El Sombrero, located at 314 Lincoln Avenue in Fox River Grove.

The business has voluntarily closed and is cooperating with McHenry County health officials during the investigation.

McHenry County Department of Health spokeswoman Lindsey Salvatelli said she is unable to provide the number of cases linked to the outbreak, citing an ongoing investigation.

Those who ate at the restaurant from August 23 to September 3, regardless if they develop symptoms or remain well, are asked to complete a survey to assist MCDH.

The collected data will assist in a comprehensive investigation of the illness outbreak to eliminate the public health risk, MCDH said.

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The survey is a secure web form that is HIPAA compliant and no personal or medical information will be released.

Health officials suggest that anyone who ate food prepared at the restaurant to seek medical attention and testing if they experience or develop symptoms.

Salmonella is a food-borne bacterium that cannot be detected by sight, taste or smell.

Once consumed it can result in symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, chills, fever or blood in the stool. Symptoms usually start between six hours to six days after infection and last four to seven days.

Most individuals can recover on their own in three to five days, but the infection can be more severe in children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.

Those with questions or who are unable to access the survey can call (815) 334-4500.

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