Officials are investigating an outbreak of life-threatening bacteria that has sickened more than a dozen people via an unknown source. The FDA reported on Wednesday that 16 people are ill from a new outbreak of the bacteria Salmonella Typhimurium. However, officials have not been able to trace the source of the outbreak. No information has been published about the location or ages of the patients, and an unknown source means Americans everywhere could be at risk of contracting salmonella.
Understanding Salmonella Typhimurium
Salmonella Typhimurium is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness, causing diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. It is particularly dangerous because it is resistant to many frontline antibiotics. No recall has been initiated, but FDA traceback efforts have begun, the agency said. No advice has been given to consumers, but in previous outbreaks shoppers have been urged to carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may contain salmonella. They have also been advised to cook food thoroughly before consumption. Salmonella cannot survive temperatures above 140F (60C).
Current Investigation Status
The outbreak was revealed by the FDA online in its latest report on ongoing foodborne outbreaks. An alert is yet to be issued. The agency said it has now begun traceback efforts and is interviewing patients in order to determine the potential source. It is the only foodborne disease outbreak that is currently listed as active by the agency. Officials added that there were likely many more illnesses, saying that for every confirmed case in an outbreak about 29 are not recorded.
Symptoms and Risks
Patients develop symptoms of a salmonella infection within 12 to 72 hours. Warning signs of salmonella include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In healthy adults, the infection lasts four to seven days before clearing. But, in serious cases, the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream and cause the life-threatening complication sepsis. Children younger than five years old, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of infection.
Recent Salmonella Outbreaks
Earlier this month, the FDA and CDC provided an update on a separate salmonella outbreak that involved the salmonella newport strain. The agencies declared it was over after it had sickened 70 people in 25 states. This outbreak was linked to cantaloupes, which had been imported into the US from Guatemala by Ayco Farms. A recall was also issued in April although, at the time, officials said there were no illnesses. No hospitalizations or deaths were reported. In March, nearly 100 people were sickened across 32 states in an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Newport that was linked to a trendy wellness supplement. Twenty-six of these patients were hospitalized, but none died from the disease. All had consumed moringa leaf powder, with more than half reporting consuming Live it Up-brand Super Greens supplement powder.
