Nationwide Salmonella Outbreak linked to Pepper Salami

The CDC has released information on an investigation into a Salmonella outbreak that has sickened at least 230 people in 44 states and the District of Columbia. The CDC outbreak information comes out at the same time as a massive recall of salami products by Daniele International, Inc., due to possible contamination with Salmonella. The Rhode Island company recalled 1,240,000 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) salami products, many of them with pepper coating. There have been two additional recalls by the company, for a grand total of 1,372, 235 pounds of meat products. There have been Salmonella spice outbreaks in the past tied to peppers and other spices, so it is possible that the spices may be a common thread through the illnesses. On January 29, 2010 Wholesome Spice was named as the likely source of the outbreak.

FSIS updated list of implicated retail locations

Salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, nausea, and/or vomiting. Fever generally occurs in the 100°F to 102°F (38°C to 39°C) range. Vomiting is less common than diarrhea. Headaches, muscle pain, and joint pain are often reported as well. Salmonella is diagnosed by stool or blood culture - if you are a family member are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to visit your health care professional and get a culture done. This will also help determine if the illness is part of the current outbreak. For more information, visit the Marler Clark site www.about-salmonella.com.