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Search for Salmonella Source Spreads to Other Produce

By Pritzker | Ruohonen

2 months after cases were first reported, the Salmonella outbreak sweeping the nation now has 869 confirmed cases in 36 states.  The source of the outbreak, previously assumed to be tomatoes, is still unknown.   A large number of cases have reported eating fresh salsa, so tomatoes were the assumed source.  But now, according to Texas news station KVUE, the search has widened to include other ingedients commonly found in salsa such as jalapeños, cilantro and onions. 

In an interview by the LA Times of Robert Tauxe of the CDC, he says that tomatoes are still the lead suspect, with 80% of illnesses associated with the consumption of tomatoes.  The entire chain of distribution is now being examined for cross contamination, such as through contaminated water or improper handling at a distributor. 

Of 1,700 domestic and international tomato samples collected so far, none has tested positive, said David Acheson, associate commissioner for foods with the Food and Drug Administration. Officials would not divulge if, or what, other produce was being seriously investigated, only saying that they would "continue to keep an open mind about the possible source."

With so many people sickened within the last few weeks, this outbreak may be far from over.  Consumers are urged to thoroughly wash fresh tomatoes or avoid raw tomatoes and tomato products if possible.  If you have symptoms of salmonellosis such as diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps, please contact a doctor and get tested for Salmonella. 

Full post as published by Food Poisoning Law Blog on July 02, 2008 (boomark / email).