1 In VA Sickened In Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Fruit: CDC

VIRGINIA – A salmonella outbreak linked to fruit has sickened 96 people, including one in Virginia, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Thursday. A New Jersey company is behind the outbreak that could impact schools, restaurants, banquet facilities, and more, officials said.

The salmonella strain has hit 11 states, and 27 people have been hospitalized as a result of the outbreak, the CDC said. No deaths have been reported, the federal agency said.

Delaware has the most cases of illness caused by the contamination at 39, followed by Pennsylvania with 34 and New Jersey with 12 cases.

Investigators with the Food and Drug Administration and CDC traced the outbreak to fruit mix with cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple and grapes from Tailor Cut Produce of North Brunswick, New Jersey.

Federal health officials warn people to take extra precautions since Tailor Cut Produce products may be found in restaurants, banquet facilities, hotels, schools, long-term care facilities and institutional food service establishments in Virginia and the other states.

The recalled fruit products were distributed between Nov. 15 and Dec. 1; the company recalled the products Dec. 7.

The FDA says nursing homes, schools, hospitals and other facilities that cater to vulnerable populations should not sell or serve them. Facilities should consult with their distributor to confirm the source of the fruit mix and cut fruit.

Other states affected include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Minnesota, and Washington.

Most people infected with salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most people recover without treatment.

Symptoms include high fever (temperature over 102 degrees), bloody stool, diarrhea, and frequent vomiting.