Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Seafood
An ongoing outbreak of Salmonella Thompson linked to seafood caused at least 102 illnesses, according to the CDC. Additionally, in 19 cases, the infection led to hospitalization. 14 states confirmed cases of the outbreak strain, However, the majority of the sick people live in or recently traveled to Colorado.
Seafood Salmonella Outbreak Sickens 102; 19 Hospitalized
14 states have confirmed a total of 102 cases of the outbreak strain of Salmonella Thompson. The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment reports the 82 illnesses in that state originated in 14 different Colorado counties. Each of the following states report two cases: Minnesota, Wyoming, Nebraska, Wisconsin, New Jersey, Virginia, and Texas. Additionally, the following states report one confirmed case: Arizona, Washington, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Missouri, and Iowa. The CDC reports all but two people reported traveling to Colorado in the week before falling ill.
The earliest confirmed illness began on May 11, and the most recent on September 7. This does not mean that all outbreak cases have been reported, as it can take many weeks to confirm that an illness is part of an outbreak. The age range spans from less than one year old to 85, with a median age of 39. 53% of those infected are female.
Multiple Northwest Seafood Products Recalled
The FDA identified seafood manufactured or processed by Northeast Seafood Products, Inc., based in Denver. After conducting a traceback investigation, the FDA collected samples at the company. These samples subsequently tested positive for the outbreak strain. As a result, Northeast Seafood Products recalled a number of products. The list of products includes Monkfish, Haddock, Grouper, Bone-In Trout, Red Rock Cod, Red Snapper, Pacific Cod, Ocean Perch, Salmon, Halibut, Coho Salmon, Lane Snapper, Atlantic Salmon Portions, Tilapia, Pacific Sole, Farm Raised Striped Bass, and All Natural Salmon Fillet. The recall does not include Pacific Cod sold at Sprouts.
The company distributed the recalled products to restaurants and to Albertsons, Safeway, and Sprouts stores in Colorado. Distribution occurred between May 2021 and October 7. After positive test results for Salmonella, the company temporarily shut down the production area of their facilities. The company urges consumers who “purchased raw, fresh, unpackaged seafood” to “return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.”