Dozens sickened in expanding salmonella outbreak linked to recalled cucumbers - AP News
Salmonella Outbreak Spreads Across 18 States, Sickening Nearly Four Dozen People
A growing number of individuals in 18 states have fallen victim to a rapidly expanding outbreak of salmonella food poisoning, linked to recalled cucumbers that were distributed to various high-risk settings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been tracking the outbreak since August 2023.
Recalled Cucumbers
The outbreak is believed to be connected to cucumbers sold at various retailers, including grocery stores, wholesalers, and distributors. The tainted produce was recalled due to concerns over potential contamination with salmonella bacteria.
States Affected
As of October 2023, the CDC has confirmed cases in 18 states:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Virginia
Symptoms and Characteristics
The affected individuals have reported symptoms consistent with salmonella infection, including:
- Diarrhea (often bloody)
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
- Vomiting
In some cases, patients have experienced more severe complications, such as:
- Bacteremia (presence of bacteria in the blood)
- Meningitis (inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord)
Outbreak Investigation
The CDC is working closely with state health departments, food safety officials, and retailers to investigate the source of the contaminated cucumbers.
Recommendations for Consumers and Food Establishments
To minimize the risk of infection:
- Consumers:
- Check your local news or visit websites like USDA's Recall Hub for updates on recalled produce.
- Discard any potentially contaminated cucumbers, regardless of their appearance or freshness.
- Cook and refrigerate raw meat, poultry, and seafood to the recommended internal temperatures.
- Food Establishments:
- Inspect your supply chain for potential sources of contamination.
- Ensure proper handling, storage, and cooking procedures for cucumbers and other produce.
- Report any suspicious or contaminated products to your local health department immediately.
Healthcare Provider Guidance
If you suspect a patient has been infected with salmonella, healthcare providers are advised:
- To perform laboratory tests (e.g., stool cultures) to confirm the diagnosis.
- To provide supportive care, such as fluids and antibiotics if necessary.
- To report cases to state and local health authorities for ongoing tracking and investigation.
Long-term Consequences
Salmonella infections can lead to long-term complications, including:
- Reactive arthritis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Early detection and treatment are crucial to preventing these sequelae.
Prevention Strategies
To reduce the risk of salmonella food poisoning:
- Handle raw produce safely: Wash hands frequently, separate raw meat from produce, and cook produce thoroughly.
- Choose fresh, locally grown produce when possible.
- Freeze or refrigerate perishable items promptly.
- Keep your kitchen clean, and prevent cross-contamination.
The Ongoing Response
As the investigation continues, health officials will work to:
- Identify the source of contaminated cucumbers
- Contain further spread of infection
- Provide guidance for food establishments and consumers
Stay informed about updates on this ongoing outbreak through reputable sources, including the CDC's website or your local health department.