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Jun 3, 2008 2:32 pm US/Central
Tomatoes Implied In Latest Salmonella Outbreak
(CBS 11 / TXA 21)
Health officials have confirmed 21 cases of salmonella in Texas since mid-April and have implied consumption of raw tomatoes as the likely source of infections.
There have been four cases of salmonella reported in Dallas County and one in Tarrant. Two of the cases reported in Dallas County were children. Other Texas counties where cases have been reported include - Hays, Harris, Fort Bend and Cameron.
Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) officials said federal, state and local authorities are investigating a multi-state outbreak of the Saintpaul strain of the Salmonella bacteria.
While health officials have not issued a recall, they have alerted doctor's offices and clinics about the outbreak. No deaths have been reported.
Authorities stress the investigation is in its early stages and specific types and source of tomatoes remain under investigation.
Nationwide, there have been 70 cases of salmonella reported in at least six states.
Symptoms include headache, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea and sometimes vomiting. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Plenty of water, extra rest and visit a doctor are suggested.
Until the specific source of the illnesses is determined, here is what health officials advise:
- People with increased risk of severe infection including infants, the elderly and those with impaired immune systems not eat any raw Roma or full-sized round tomatoes other than those sold attached to the vine or grown at home.
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People who want to reduce their risk of Salmonella infection avoid eating raw Roma or full-sized round tomatoes other than those sold attached to the vine or grown at home.
At the Dallas Farmers Market Tuesday, some shoppers said they would definitely take precautions, while other said they really weren't concerned.
When purchasing and eating tomatoes consumers are advised to: - Cook tomatoes at 145 degrees F. for at least 15 seconds to kill Salmonella.
- Avoid purchasing bruised or damaged tomatoes and discard any that appear spoiled.
- Thoroughly wash all tomatoes under running water.
- Refrigerate within two hours or discard cut, peeled or cooked tomatoes.
- Keep tomatoes that will be eaten raw separate from raw meats, raw seafood and other raw produce items.
- Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and counter tops with hot water and soap when switching between types of food products.
- Wash hands thoroughly and often with soap and warm water especially after going to the restroom, before preparing or serving food and after changing a diaper.
(Source: Texas Department of State Health Services)
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