Tomatoes at center of Salmonella outbreak
admin June 23rd, 2008
Several at risk for infection and injury.
Certain types of tomatoes are at the center of an investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) into the cause of an apparent outbreak of Salmonella.
Since mid-April, the FDA has received reports of 552 Salmonella illnesses and 53 hospitalizations. Salmonella can cause severe injuries and illnesses, sometimes fatal.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that Texas has had a large proportion of the Salmonella cases reported since April. 265 cases have been reported in Texas alone, making up 48 percent of all cases reported in the country since April.
Symptoms and features of Salmonella infections are:
- Diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps within 12-72 hours
- Illness from Salmonella lasts 4-7 days
- Infants, elderly persons, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to develop severe symptoms
- Salmonella infections can spread to the bloodstream in severe cases, and then move to other parts of the body, and potentially cause death.
Preliminary research suggests that infected raw plum, Roma, and round red tomatoes from specific sources are at the root of the problem. For a complete list of areas NOT AFFECTED by the outbreak, visit the FDA Web site.
While the specific types of tomatoes previously mentioned have been affected by the Salmonella outbreak, consumers should be aware that not all tomatoes will put them at risk of being infected.
In fact, cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, tomatoes sold with vines still attached, and tomatoes grown at home are all safe to consume when prepared properly. Also, red plum, red Roma, and round red tomatoes from specific sources have also been designated as safe by and FDA investigation.
As a safety measure, the CDC advises tomato consumers to:
- Discard cut, peeled, or cooked tomatoes, or refrigerate them within two hours.
- Avoid buying tomatoes that have been bruised or damaged and throw away any that have spoiled.
- Wash all tomatoes thoroughly under running water.Separate tomatoes from other raw foods, such as meats, seafood, and produce.
- Be sure to wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and cooking surfaces with soapy hot water before switching between types of food products.
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