The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are continuing their investigation into two salmonella outbreaks believed to be linked to cucumbers, with the total number of people affected surpassing 380 across at least 28 states.
As of Wednesday, the FDA reported an increase in cases for both outbreaks. The first outbreak, caused by Salmonella Africana, has now affected 196 individuals in 28 states and Washington, D.C., up from 162 cases in 25 states previously reported. Of these cases, 68 people have been hospitalized. There have been no reported deaths. These cases were reported between March 30 and May 23, with 74% of patients reporting consumption of cucumbers.
In the second outbreak, linked to Salmonella Braenderup, there are now 185 cases in 24 states, up from 158 cases in 23 states.
The FDA announced on June 1 that Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. of Delray, Florida, recalled cucumbers grown in Florida and shipped to 14 states between May 17 and 21 after some cucumbers tested positive for salmonella. The strain found in these cucumbers, Salmonella Bareilly, does not match any of the current outbreak strains, according to the FDA.
While epidemiological evidence suggests a link between cucumbers and the outbreaks, the CDC and FDA have not confirmed cucumbers as the definitive source of illness. Bill Marler, a food safety lawyer, indicated to USA TODAY that the epidemiological investigation following the recall pointed to cucumbers from Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc.
Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically appearing between six hours and six days after exposure. Severe cases may involve additional symptoms such as headaches, elevated fever, and blood in the urine or stool, and can be fatal in some instances.
Consumers are advised to exercise caution regarding food safety, particularly with fresh produce. Barbara Kowalcyk from George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health emphasized the importance of thorough washing and careful handling to minimize risk, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
The CDC estimates that salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths annually in the United States.