News

Actions

Cukes from Mexico source of salmonella outbreak sickening hundreds in U.S.

Posted at 6:11 PM, Sep 10, 2015
and last updated 2015-09-10 18:11:28-04

A salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers grown in Mexico has killed two people and sickened hundreds in the United States, health officials said Wednesday.

The outbreak of Salmonella Poona has been reported in 30 states since July, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Of the 341 people sickened, more than half have been children younger than 18. The fatalities occurred in California and Texas.

At least 70 people have been hospitalized.

California is among the hardest hit. The state has identified 72 cases as of this week. Health officials reassured residents that the food produced in the state is not at risk. Arizona has had 66 cases.

Salmonella Poona causes the same symptoms as the regular subtype of the ailment, including nausea, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Infants, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.

Those who have eaten cucumbers are urged to see a doctor if they have severe diarrhea.

Investigations by the CDC have identified imported cucumbers from Mexico distributed by Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce as a likely source of the outbreak, the agency said.

On Friday, Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce voluntarily recalled all cucumbers sold under the “Limited Edition” label from August 1 through early September, according to the CDC.

In a statement, the San Diego-based company this week said it “has been cooperating with the government agencies” and “every effort has been taken to remove this product from the market.”