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Expanding Salmonella Outbreak Tied to Cucumbers from Florida Grower
An outbreak of salmonella food poisoning has affected nearly four dozen individuals across 18 states, federal health officials confirmed on Friday. The illnesses are linked to recalled cucumbers distributed to restaurants, hospitals, cruise ships, and grocery stores, including Target stores.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that at least 16 people have been hospitalized after consuming cucumbers produced by Florida-based Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales. The contaminated cucumbers were sold between April 29 and May 19.
The outbreak has resulted in reports of illness from people on six different cruise ships that departed from U.S. ports between late March and mid-April, according to the CDC. The actual number of affected individuals is likely much higher, and the outbreak might impact additional states.
Several companies have issued recalls for various cucumber-related products linked to the outbreak. Target has recalled numerous items, such as whole cucumbers, salads, and vegetable rolls. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded the recall, including products sold at Walmart, Albertsons, and other major retailers.
Investigators found salmonella in a sample of Bedner Growers cucumbers in a Pennsylvania distribution center. This sample matches the strain of salmonella that has caused the illnesses. Furthermore, multiple other strains of salmonella detected during the investigation match samples in the government's database. The CDC is working to determine whether additional cases of illness match these strains.
Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include diarrhea, fever, severe vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps. Most people recover within a week, but infections could be severe in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, who may require hospitalization.
As with any health-related information, it is essential for consumers to consult reliable sources for updates and guidance related to this outbreak. Continue reading our breaking news alerts for the latest developments.
- The government, through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is working to determine if additional cases of illness match the strains of salmonella found in contaminated cucumbers produced by Florida-based Bedner Growers.
- The government's investigation revealed multiple strains of salmonella in products linked to the outbreak, with one strain matching samples from Bedner Growers cucumbers in a Pennsylvania distribution center.
- In light of the expanded salmonella outbreak, various companies and retailers, such as Target, Walmart, and Albertsons, have issued recalls for cucumber-related products.
- Politicians and stakeholders in education, health, and wellness may need to address policy implications arising from this outbreak, ensuring that information about food safety, particularly concerning recalled items, is efficiently communicated to consumers and facilities like hospitals and schools.
- The government's efforts in healthcare played a crucial role in identifying the outbreak and responding through recalls, while coordinating with the medical community to treat those affected by salmonella poisoning in hospitals.
- With the outbreak impacting numerous individuals in various states and the likelihood of additional states being affected, it is crucial for consumers to be aware of medical-conditions related to salmonella poisoning, such as diarrhea, fever, and severe vomiting, and seek medical attention when necessary.
