Introduction
Salmonella is a bacterium that lives in the intestines of humans and animals. It is commonly spread through contaminated water or food, and the bacteria is shredded through animal waste. If humans eat contaminated raw or undercooked foods, such as eggs, meat, or unpasteurized milk, they are at risk of infection. Salmonella is a public health issue because it can cause Salmonellosis, a disease of the stomach and intestine that may result in sickness, hospitalization, or death. Approximately 1.35 million people get sick, 26,500 individuals are hospitalized, and 420 persons die annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Recent Salmonella Outbreak
The most recent Salmonella outbreak occurred in April 2024 in Infinite Herbs Brand for Organic Basil, packaged in 2.5-ounce clamshell-style containers. The products were sold at Trader Joe's stores in 29 states and Fruit Center Marketplace stores in Massachusetts between February 1, 2024, and April 6, 2024. Also, Melissa Brand Fresh Organic Basil is packaged in 2 and 4-ounce containers and sold at Dierberg's stores in Missouri between February 10, 2024, and February 20, 2024. Trader Joe's and Dierberg's stores pulled these products from their shelves, which are no longer available for sale.
Symptoms of Salmonella infections can begin within six hours to six days of exposure to contaminated food or water and last four to seven days. Most humans develop a high fever (102 degrees Fahrenheit), stomach cramps, vomiting, headache, chills, bloody stool, and diarrhea that can last up to 10 days. Usually, people recover without seeking treatment, but hospitalization may be required for severe dehydration, and life-threatening complications can occur if the illness goes beyond the intestines. People should seek medical attention for babies, young kids, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals if the disease persists over a few days and is connected with a high fever, bloody stools, or dehydration.
Cook and Consumer Tips
People must remember to practice proper food safety and hygiene to decrease the risk of Salmonellosis. They get Salmonella from many different foods that look and smell normal, so it is vital to understand how to prevent infections. This disease can spread from animals to humans, so washing hands after contact with animals, changing a baby's diaper, and using the restroom is essential. Also, ensure children do not put their hands in their mouths after playing with animals, do not kiss pets, and clean pet areas with disinfectants.
Infections are most common in the summer because warmer temperatures and unrefrigerated foods increase the bacteria's growth conditions. Freezing or refrigerating foods, such as prepared meals and leftovers, is more likely to spoil within two hours or one hour if temperatures outdoors exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Foods that go bad quickly need to be stored at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler or frozen at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. The danger zone that allows the bacteria to grow on food is 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash your hands before and after preparing food, and clean kitchen surfaces and utensils after food preparation. Separate raw meats such as poultry and seafood from fruits and vegetables, and do not prepare them on the same surfaces without disinfecting them. Cook raw meats to a temperature of 145 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill the bacteria. People should not eat raw or undercooked foods such as cookie dough. Always wash fruits and vegetables before consuming them.
Conclusion
Preventing salmonella infections in fruits, vegetables, and animals is a crucial strategy for reducing Salmonellosis and ensuring the quality and safety of food. Babies, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals who are infected with Salmonella are at a higher risk of developing severe complications and increased rates of death.
References:
1. Salmonella homepage. Cdc.gov. Published June 18, 2024. Accessed June 29, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/index.html
2. CDC. Salmonella outbreak linked to fresh basil. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published June 18, 2024. Accessed June 29, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/basil-04-24/index.html
3. Symptoms. Cdc.gov. Published December 12, 2019. Accessed June 29, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/general/salmonella-symptoms.html
4. Prevention. Cdc.gov. Published March 2, 2021. Accessed June 29, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/general/prevention.html Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
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