DSHS: Salmonella Outbreak Prompts Warning

News Release
Sept. 4, 2015

The Texas Department of State Health Services is urging people to follow national guidance issued today not to eat recalled cucumbers that may be contaminated with Salmonella, a bacteria that can make people sick.

The guidance was issued in connection with a multi-state Salmonella Poona outbreak that appears to be linked to imported cucumbers from Mexico distributed by Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce, a California company.

The recalled cucumbers were distributed to various states including Texas and are sold under the “Limited Edition” brand name. This type of cucumber is dark green, typically 7 to 10 inches long and usually sold in bulk bins. They may not be easily identified by label or sticker. People should talk to their retailer or supplier about whether their cucumbers were part of the recall. 

If people are unsure whether cucumbers they have on hand are part of the recall, they should not eat them and throw them out. 

DSHS is collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and public health officials in many states to investigate Salmonella Poona infections. The investigation has identified 285 confirmed Salmonella Poona cases in 27 states, including nine in Texas. The state and federal investigations are ongoing.

A person infected with Salmonella usually has headache, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea and sometimes vomiting beginning 12 to 72 hours after eating a contaminated food or beverage. Severe infections may occur, especially among infants, the elderly and in people with impaired immune systems. The illness usually last four to seven days, and most people recover without treatment. People concerned about their symptoms should see their health care provider.

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(News Media Contact: Carrie Williams, director of Media Relations, carrie.williams@dshs.state.tx.us, 512-776-7119)