According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the total number of illnesses in a salmonella outbreak linked with raw turkey products now stands at 164 people across 35 states.
That's 74 more cases than at the last update on July 19, 2018, the agency said Thursday.
"The outbreak strain of Salmonella Reading has been identified in various raw turkey products, including ground turkey and turkey patties," the CDC stated. "The outbreak strain has also been found in raw turkey pet food and live turkeys, indicating it might be widespread in the turkey industry."
Sixty-three people have been hospitalized, and one death was reported in California. Health officials have confirmed the first death due to the on-going, raw turkey-associated Salmonella outbreak in the United States.
Illnesses in the outbreak began between November 20, 2017 and October 20, 2018.
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The outbreak strain of salmonella has been found in various raw turkey products, including ground turkey, turkey patties, as well as in turkey pet food and live turkeys, indicating it might be widespread in the turkey industry, the CDC said.
A single, common supplier of raw turkey products or of live turkeys has not been identified in connection with the outbreak.
The investigation is ongoing, the CDC said.
The agency said it is not advising consumers to avoid eating properly cooked turkey products, or for retailers to stop selling raw turkey products.
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The CDC reminded consumers to always handle raw turkey carefully and cook it thoroughly (internal temperature of 165 degrees F) to prevent food poisoning.
Most people recover from salmonella infection within a week, but some illnesses can last longer and be more severe.
Around 12 to 72 hours after a person is exposed to the bacteria, he or she will typically experience symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Most people will recover from the infection within...
...3 to 7 days without the need for medical treatment. But in the minority of cases, especially among older adults and infants, there is a risk of severe illnesses which could lead to hospitalization, long-term complications, or even death.
Yet, even with Thanksgiving just around the corner, the CDC is not asking people to avoid consuming or selling turkey. Rather, it offers a reminder to follow the right method of preparation when cooking turkey products.
Forgoing stuffing your turkey could also reduce the risk as it could be an additional source of bacteria.
