Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Recalled Cucumbers
Nearly four dozen people in 18 states have been sickened in an expanding outbreak of salmonella food poisoning tied to recalled cucumbers sent to restaurants, hospitals, cruise ships, and grocery stores, including Target stores, federal health officials said Friday.
At least 16 people have been hospitalized after eating cucumbers produced by Florida-based Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported. The cucumbers were sold from April 29 through May 19.
Extent of the Outbreak
The outbreak includes reports of illness from people aboard six different cruise ships that departed from U.S. ports between late March and mid-April, the CDC said. The true number of sick people is likely much higher, and the outbreak could affect additional states, officials said.
Several companies have issued recalls for whole cucumbers and cucumbers used in a range of sandwiches, salsas, and other foods linked to the outbreak. Target recalled dozens of products, including whole cucumbers, salads, and vegetable rolls.
Investigation and Findings
The outbreak was detected during a follow-up inspection in April to a 2024 outbreak that sickened 551 people and led to 155 hospitalizations in 34 states and Washington, D.C. In that outbreak, investigators found salmonella bacteria linked to many of the illnesses in untreated canal water used at farms operated by Bedner Growers and Thomas Produce Company.
As part of the new investigation, FDA officials found salmonella in a sample of Bedner Growers cucumbers at a distribution center in Pennsylvania. That sample matched the strain of salmonella that made people sick. In addition, “multiple other strains” of salmonella were detected that match samples in a government database. CDC officials are working to determine whether additional illnesses in people match those strains.
Symptoms and Prevention
Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include diarrhea, fever, severe vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps. Most people who get sick recover within a week. Infections can be severe in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, who may require hospitalization.
To prevent salmonella poisoning, it is essential to handle and cook food safely. This includes washing hands thoroughly before and after handling food, cooking food to the recommended internal temperature, and refrigerating perishable foods promptly.
Recalls and Public Awareness
The recalls and public awareness campaigns aim to prevent further illnesses and promote food safety. Consumers are advised to check their homes for recalled products and discard them immediately. Restaurants and food establishments are also advised to check their supplies and discard any recalled products.
By JONEL ALECCIA, The Associated Press
Conclusion
In conclusion, the salmonella outbreak linked to recalled cucumbers is a significant public health concern. It is essential for consumers, restaurants, and food establishments to take immediate action to prevent further illnesses. By being aware of the recalls and taking steps to handle and cook food safely, we can reduce the risk of salmonella poisoning and protect public health.
FAQs
Q: What is salmonella poisoning? Salmonella poisoning is a type of foodborne illness caused by the salmonella bacteria. It can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, severe vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps.
Q: How can I prevent salmonella poisoning? To prevent salmonella poisoning, it is essential to handle and cook food safely. This includes washing hands thoroughly before and after handling food, cooking food to the recommended internal temperature, and refrigerating perishable foods promptly.
Q: What should I do if I have recalled cucumbers? If you have recalled cucumbers, you should discard them immediately. Do not eat them, and do not try to cook them, as this can spread the bacteria.
Q: How can I check if I have recalled products? You can check the official websites of the companies that issued the recalls or contact their customer service departments to check if you have recalled products.
Q: What should I do if I think I have salmonella poisoning? If you think you have salmonella poisoning, you should seek medical attention immediately. Your healthcare provider can diagnose and treat the infection, and provide guidance on how to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
