A salmonella outbreak from recalled cucumbers has impacted multiple states, including Delaware. The outbreaks, caused by Salmonella Africana and Salmonella Braenderup strains, have sickened over 380 people in the United States.
The first reported outbreak was identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on March 30, affecting 196 individuals across 28 states and Washington D.C. Of those affected, 68 have been hospitalized.
The second outbreak was reported by the FDA on May 31 after some cucumbers tested positive for salmonella. Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc., a Florida-based produce supplier, initiated a voluntary recall of their cucumbers grown in Florida and shipped to 14 states between May 17 and 21.
The FDA is continuing to investigate both outbreaks to determine the specific sources and products involved. However, with many people reporting illness after consuming cucumbers, those are likely implicated in the outbreaks.
Salmonella can enter the food production chain when processes aren't sanitary and when workers handling food don't wash their hands. It is usually spread via contaminated water used to irrigate crops and undercooked or raw foods like cucumbers.
Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, aches, headaches, elevated fever, lethargy, rashes, blood in the urine or stool. Some salmonella infections may become fatal.
The CDC advises that anyone who has consumed cucumbers and developed symptoms of salmonella infection should contact their healthcare provider.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
