Over 150 individuals across the United States have fallen ill due to a potential salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that as of Tuesday, 162 cases of salmonella infection have been recorded across 25 states and Washington, D.C. Out of these, 54 individuals have been hospitalized, although no fatalities have been reported thus far.
The outbreak is primarily concentrated in states such as Pennsylvania, Florida, Virginia, and New York. According to the CDC, the actual number of affected individuals might be significantly higher than reported, indicating that the outbreak's reach may extend beyond the currently identified states.
Last week, Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. issued a recall for cucumbers distributed between May 17 and May 21 in 14 states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. The recalled cucumbers are described as having diameters of about 1.5 to 2 inches and lengths of 5 to 9 inches. The recall does not affect mini or English cucumbers. Fresh Start Produce Sales, based in Delray, Florida, was alerted to the contamination by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture after a product tested positive for salmonella.
Customers are advised to check with local retailers to determine if the affected products were sold at their locations. The FDA recommends that any cucumbers matching the recall description be discarded or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. Salmonella infection can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are at higher risk of severe illness or complications.
In a parallel investigation, the FDA is also examining a second outbreak of salmonella Braenderup infections. As of June 5, 158 confirmed cases have been reported across 23 states. This outbreak shares similarities with the salmonella Africana outbreak, including the timing and demographics of the affected individuals. Both outbreaks are suspected to be linked to fresh cucumbers.
Preliminary test results have suggested that the salmonella Africana outbreak may be associated with cucumbers recalled by Fresh Start Produce Sales. These cucumbers were sold in bulk to retail distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors across 14 states, potentially reaching additional locations through secondary distribution or repackaging.
The FDA continues to collect information to identify specific retail locations that sold the contaminated cucumbers. Interviews with 65 patients from the salmonella Africana outbreak revealed that 72% had consumed cucumbers before falling ill. The outbreak was first reported by the FDA on May 22.
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture officials have conducted tests on cucumber samples from various retail locations, confirming the presence of salmonella. Further testing is ongoing to determine if the strain matches the one responsible for the illnesses.
The CDC emphasizes that the actual number of cases is likely much higher than the confirmed figures, citing that for every reported case of salmonella, approximately 29 go unreported. Salmonella infections can present symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. Most healthy adults recover within a week, but severe cases may require hospitalization.
Particularly at risk are infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients. Some individuals may carry the infection without displaying symptoms, yet still, pose a risk of spreading it to others.
In response to the outbreaks, Fresh Start Produce Sales has reiterated its commitment to public safety, stating that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure contaminated products are removed from circulation. The company urges consumers to remain vigilant and report any related health issues to healthcare providers immediately.
