Suspected food poisoning in the USA: 55 people infected with bacteria
Authorities in the country are warning of a large-scale outbreak linked to contaminated alfalfa sprouts. Over 50 people in 15 states have been infected with Salmonella and E. coli bacteria. Four of the patients required hospitalization.
A suspected food poisoning outbreak has been reported across 15 US states. The AP news agency stated today, Saturday, that 55 people have been infected with Salmonella and E. coli bacteria.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that cases were identified nationwide, including in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), out of 34 patients interviewed, 26 reported consuming alfalfa sprouts prior to falling ill.
Authorities noted that this is an unusual outbreak, as food poisoning events are typically linked to a single bacterium, whereas in this instance, patients were found to be infected with both Salmonella and several different strains of E. coli.
STEC E. coli, which produces Shiga toxin, can cause severe abdominal cramps and bloody diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can lead to dangerous complications, including acute kidney failure.
The FDA stated that the company has not yet issued a product recall notice.
Last year, the FDA sent a warning letter to the company after inspections at the facility revealed several deficiencies, including a leaking roof that allowed water to drip onto bean sprouts and employees' work clothing.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify all cases of infection and to verify if other products may be linked to the outbreak.
