Man dies from Walnut Grove gas station botulism outbreak

SACRAMENTO — One person has died of botulism after eating nacho cheese sauce from a Walnut Grove gas station, California health officials confirmed Monday.

The man was one of 10 people who fell ill with the rare form of food poisoning in recent weeks after eating at Valley Oak Food and Fuel.

The nacho cheese sauce tested positive for the toxin that causes botulism, a severe illness marked by vomiting, blurry vision and gradual paralysis, the California Department of Health announced. The gas station stopped selling the cheese sauce on May 5.

The state agency believes there is no continuing risk to the public.

“While there are still unanswered questions about this outbreak, these tragic illnesses are important reminders to be vigilant about food safety,” said state Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith in a statement. “As we head into the summer barbecue season, both indoor and outdoor chefs need to be on guard against all foodborne illnesses.”

The state did not identify the victim, but according to a GoFundMe page created by relatives in Rio Vista, Martin Galindo, a father of two, died from botulism Thursday after several weeks in the hospital. Sacramento County health officials said the other victims had been hospitalized in serious condition.