How big will the Salmonella Cucumber Outbreak be? How many strains of Salmonella will be found?

It has been a few weeks since the CDC and FDA have updated this outbreak.

The CDC and FDA have reported that epidemiologic data shows that cucumbers may be contaminated with Salmonella and may be making people sick. Testing identified Salmonella in a cucumber collected as part of this investigation, which resulted in a recall. Further testing showed the Salmonella from the cucumber was a different strain of Salmonella (Bareilly) than the one making people sick.  

As of June 12, a total of 196 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Africana have been reported from 28 states and the District of Columbia. Illnesses started on dates ranging from March 11, 2024, to May 23, 2024. Of 164 people with information available, 68 have been hospitalized and no deaths have been reported.

CDC and FDA are also investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup infections, with 185 illnesses in 24 states. The two outbreaks share several similarities, including where and when illnesses occurred and the demographics of ill people. Investigators are working to determine whether the two outbreaks could be linked to the same food. Information will be provided on the source of the Salmonella Braenderup outbreak as it becomes available.

The true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses. This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for Salmonella. In addition, recent illnesses may not yet be reported as it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak.

Investigators are collecting more information to see if other cucumbers are affected.

To date Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. has recalled whole cucumbers.

Cucumbers were sold in bulk in 24- and 32-count boxes directly to retail distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors in 14 states, but these sellers may have shipped to additional states or re-packaged them for stores. Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Shipped from May 17 to May 21. Grown in Florida.

Republished with permission from Bill Marler and Marler Clark. Copyright (c) Marler Clark LLP, PS. All rights reserved.