Upper Stoney Creek restaurant closed after nine people infected with salmonella

A restaurant on Stoney Creek Mountain is temporarily closed as public health officials investigate a salmonella outbreak.

As of Tuesday, Hamilton Public Health says nine confirmed cases of the foodborne illness have been linked to Piper Arms located at 1786 Stone Church Rd. East.

Officials say seven of those people have been hospitalized as a result of the illness.

Affected patrons started experiencing symptoms — including abdominal pain, chills, diarrhea and vomiting — between March 30 and April 5.

READ MORE: Hamilton police charge man after referee hit during ball hockey game dispute

Officials say the source of the illness has not been linked to any specific food item at this time.

Hamilton Public Health ordered the temporary closure of Piper Arms as of Tuesday. It says inspections of the restaurant took place on Friday and Monday.

In an email to CHCH News, a spokesperson for Piper Arms Stoney Creek says public health’s inspection “did not identify any violations or issues at the time of their visit.”

“We are cooperating fully and transparently with Hamilton Public Health and take this matter very seriously,” the restaurant spokesperon says. “We are committed to the safety of our guests and our community.”

Health officials say they have worked closely with the operator of the restaurant to review food handling and sanitation practices and have collected food samples for laboratory testing.

“At this time, no specific deficiencies requiring corrective action have been identified, however, the closure allows public health to complete the investigation and ensure the premise is operating safely before reopening,” reads a statement from Hamilton Public Health.

People who ate at Piper Arms in Stoney Creek and are experiencing symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea or vomiting are advised to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or worsening; stay home while sick to prevent spreading the infection; practice good hand hygiene; and report the illness to Hamilton Public Health at 905-546-2424 ext. 7970.

WATCH MORE: Hamilton sees five-year low in crash-related deaths and serious injuries

Public health officials say those who are not experiencing symptoms should continue to monitor for symptoms, practice good hand hygiene and safe food handling practices.

Salmonella is a bacteria that is typically found in raw or undercooked foods such as poultry, eggs, meat and unpasteurized products and can also spread through contaminated produce or improper food handling.

Salmonella infection typically occurs six to 48 hours after exposure and can last several days.

Most people recover without treatment, however, young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems may be at higher risk of severe illness.

WATCH MORE: Hamilton nets $7K in fines during first two weeks of Sunday parking enforcement