By Scout Nelson
Minnesota health and agriculture officials are urging consumers not to eat alfalfa sprouts sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands because of a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and Salmonella infections. The affected sprouts were distributed to restaurants and grocery stores, prompting an ongoing public health investigation.
Between July 8, and Aug. 8, 23 Minnesota residents became ill with Salmonella and/or STEC infections. Two people were hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.
Wisconsin health officials have identified 18 additional related cases, while other states have also reported illnesses connected to the outbreak. Investigators expect the number of cases to grow as more information becomes available.
Officials traced the outbreak to alfalfa sprouts produced by Minnesota-based Everything Sprouts and sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands. Consumers are advised to avoid these products and discard any remaining sprouts.
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) are working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other state agencies to determine the source and scope of the contamination.
STEC infections often cause severe stomach cramps and diarrhea that may be bloody. Symptoms typically appear within two to five days of exposure, and while most people recover within a week, serious complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) can occur.
Health officials advise against using antibiotics to treat diarrhea linked to STEC infections because doing so may increase the risk of developing HUS. Anyone who suspects an STEC infection should contact a healthcare provider.
Salmonella infections commonly cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. Symptoms usually develop within 12 to 96 hours after exposure and often resolve within five to seven days, although severe cases may require hospitalization.
Individuals who consumed the affected sprouts and develop symptoms should seek medical advice promptly. Health officials continue to monitor the outbreak and encourage consumers to follow food safety recommendations.
Photo Credit: minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, General