Salmonella outbreak scare and information!

The death of a man in Texas reportedly could have a connection to a 16-state salmonella outbreak linked to tomatoes.

A Houston health department spokeswoman tells the Houston Chronicle that while cancer is considered the cause of death, salmonella was a contributing factor.

The outbreak is linked to three types of raw tomatoes, and the list of supermarkets and restaurants yanking those varieties is growing.

They include McDonald's, Wal-Mart, Burger King, Kroger, Outback Steakhouse, Winn-Dixie and Taco Bell.

The affected varieties are red plum, red Roma or round red tomatoes unless they were grown in certain states and countries.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said that since mid-April, 145 people infected with salmonella with the same "genetic fingerprint" have been identified.

Until the source of the outbreak is determined, the CDC is suggesting that tomatoes should be handled following these guidelines:

-persons with increased risk of severe infection, including infants, elderly persons, and those with impaired immune systems, should not eat raw Roma or red round tomatoes other than those sold attached to the vine or grown at home, and persons who want to reduce their risk of Salmonella infection can avoid consuming raw Roma or red round tomatoes other than those sold attached to the vine or grown at home.

-Avoid purchasing bruised or damaged tomatoes and discard any that appear spoiled.
-Thoroughly wash all tomatoes under running water.

-Refrigerate within 2 hours or discard cut, peeled, or cooked tomatoes.

-Keep tomatoes that will be consumed raw separate from raw meats, raw seafood, and raw produce items.

-Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and counter tops with hot water and soap when switching between types of food products.

-Cook tomatoes at 145 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 15 seconds to kill salmonella.
-Wash your 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.

Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most persons recover without treatment. Some people may need hospitalization due to severe diarrhea.

The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness.

Visit http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/saintpaul for more info.