A salmonella outbreak that has continued to worsen across the nation has led to the death of two people. Two people in Pennsylvania have also been hospitalized for salmonella poisoning.
The Food & Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control, and state and local officials are currently investigating a multistate outbreak of salmonella Poona. Salmonella Poona has previously been linked to imported cantaloupes.
The outbreak has led to 341 infections across 30 states. Seventy people have been hospitalized while two people have died. At least two people in Pennsylvania have fallen ill as a result of the cucumbers.
The salmonella outbreak has been linked to cucumbers distributed by Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce. The cucumbers were imported from Mexico.
In early July, as many as 70 people had been hospitalized for Salmonella Poona infections.
Salmonella Poona outbreaks are not common. Some common symptoms of salmonella include fever, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. The infection can last between four to seven days. In some people, the infection may spread to the blood stream, and then to other parts of body. If left untreated, it can be fatal.
Unfortunately, consumers cannot always tell where their produce came from as these products are sold individually. If you’re unsure of where your cucumbers originated from, call and ask the store you purchased them from; if they cannot provide an answer, consider throwing out the product.
Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce has voluntarily recalled their products.
Recently, Appeeling Fruit Inc. of Pennsylvania recalled their sliced apples for Listeria monocytogenes contamination as well.
While consumers can reduce the risk of illness by thoroughly washing their produce before consuming it, these types of outbreaks are not so easily preventable. If you or someone you know has fallen ill and been hospitalized due to a contaminated product, you may be entitled to file a claim.
Our experienced attorneys can help you determine your legal options and if you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills or lost wages.
For a free case review, call (717) 888-8888.