The outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul which has sickened 869 people, and put 107 in the hospital, may have as much to do with the types of food eaten with suspected tomatoes as the tomatoes themselves. The reason is due to the longevity of this outbreak, which began in April. The latest case tied to this particular outbreak was reported on June 20. Over half of the cases have been in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. What may be as disconcerting as the fact the outbreak may involve more foods than tomatoes is that Salmonella Saintpaul is an uncommon, and even rare, form of the bacteria.
Dr. David Acheson, associate commissioner for foods at the FDA, says that ten of the 100 laboratories that comprise the country’s Food Emergency Response Network have expanded their testing of other foods. However, he won’t say what those foods are. Another disconcerting fact, though Acheson says it would be “irresponsible” to say what the foods they are looking at are. Because tomatoes are used in several kinds of recipes and with different foods, it can be left to consumers’ collective imagination as to what could possibly be tainted.
The FDA continues to stress that cherry, grape, and on-the-vine tomatoes are not part of the investigation, and that raw tomatoes from many countries and states are not associated with the outbreak. However, the investigation seems to be going slow enough that Michael Leavitt, Secretary of Health and Human Services, acknowledged there was frustration. Furthermore, the United Fresh Produce Association has asked for federal safety regulations in an attempt to allay the fears of consumers.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are nearly 1.4 million cases of salmonella poisoning annually in the US. There are approximately 600 deaths each year as a result of these infections, accounting for 31% of all food-related deaths. Symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
These symptoms can last anywhere from 24 hours to seven days or more. Due to diarrhea and vomiting, dehydration is a serious concern.
If you or a loved one has become sickened due to a food borne bacteria, please contact an experienced injury lawyer in your area to see if you have a claim.
