Following the Cucumber Recall, Salmonella Cases Continue to Appear

 Posted on November 21, 2015 in Food Poisoning

In mid-2015 the Centers for Disease Control reported a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella poisoning associated with cucumbers imported from Mexico. Individuals in 23 states became ill after eating these cucumbers, which were grown and packed by Rancho Don Juanito in Mexico and then sold in the United States by Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce. The specific strain of Salmonella, Salmonella Poona, is known to appear in affected individuals 12 to 72 hours after coming into contact with the bacteria and causing symptoms like cramping, fatigue, diarrhea, fever, and in rare cases, joint pain.

There is no way to completely eliminate your risk of being infected with Salmonella Poona or any other type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. This is especially true if you frequently eat food prepared in place other than your own kitchen, such as restaurants and cafeterias. In most cases, Salmonella poisoning resolves itself within a few days with rest and the intake of fluids. However, it can sometimes become severe to the point that medical intervention is necessary. When this is the case, a victim has the right to seek compensation for his or her losses through a food poisoning claim.

New Cases in the Outbreak

Since the Salmonella Poona outbreak was reported, more cases of infection have been cropping up daily. Now, individuals in 38 states have been affected by this strain, despite a recall of the affected cucumbers.

Another produce supplier, Custom Produce Sales, also recalled some of its cucumbers because of reports of Salmonella Poona poisoning. Although the number of reported cases has gone down from their peak in August and September 2015, the number is still higher than what would normally be reported for this type of poisoning.

Victims of this outbreak range in age from less than one year to 99 years old. Because of their weaker immune systems, infants, the elderly, and pregnant women are at a higher risk of being affected by food poisoning than other segments of the population.

Protect Yourself by Knowing your Produce

It is important to remember that not all cases of food poisoning are reported, so the number of people affected is most likely much higher than the official reports. To minimize your chance of being infected with Salmonella Poona, find out which company supplies your grocery store's cucumbers. If you can trace the source of your produce, you can potentially avoid becoming ill by avoiding a company linked to a recent outbreak.

Food Poisoning Attorneys in Chicago

If you or a loved one have been affected by Salmonella Poona or any other type of food poisoning, consider taking action by filing a personal injury claim for your damages. Our team of experienced food poisoning attorneys at Newland & Newland, LLP is here to help you seek the compensation you deserve by providing you with legal advice and representing your claim in court. Do not wait to begin working with us – be proactive about your case and contact our firm today to schedule your legal consultation with a member of our team.