Nationwide Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Produce from New Jersey Company
Nationwide Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Produce from New Jersey Company
More than 90 illnesses caused by salmonella have been linked to a New Jersey-based produce company. According to a USA Today news report, the potential source of the outbreak comes from Tailor Cut Produce of North Brunswick, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has announced.
Illnesses and Hospitalizations
In December, the company recalled Fruit Luau cut fruit mix, cut honeydew, cantaloupe and pineapple products, which were distributed in Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware and New Jersey, the four states with the most illnesses. The following states had one reported illness: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Minnesota, Virginia and Washington.
As of Dec. 30, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had reported 96 illnesses in 11 states. There have been 27 hospitalizations so far, but no deaths. CDC said the products were not sold directly to consumers in grocery stores but to institutions such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools and hotels. The FDA recommends rinsing items in clean running water without using cleaners or soaps followed by drying produce using a clean cloth towel or paper towel.
Symptoms of Salmonella illnesses
The most common symptoms of salmonella infections include fever, diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. In a majority of cases, the illness lasts four to seven days. Most of the patients recover without treatment. However, in some cases, patients may need to be hospitalized due to severe diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration. In most severe cases, salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream and then to other body sites causing death. Elderly people, young children and those with impaired immune systems are most susceptible to serious infections.
If You Have Been Affected
Those who are affected by food poisoning go through significant physical symptoms such as pain and discomfort. At the same time, they also incur medical expenses for hospitalization, medications and diagnostic tests. Many also lose income because of being unable to work while they are recovering.
When food poisoning is caused by a contaminated or defective product, victims can seek compensation from the food producer, manufacturer and distributor. Damages that can be sought include medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced California food poisoning lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families in such cases regarding their legal rights and options.
