Minnesota Sprouts Linked to E. coli, Salmonella Outbreak
St. Paul, MN (MinnesotaNow) - Minnesota health officials are reporting another outbreak of a foodborne illness.
Two brands linked to Minnesota illnesses
The Minnesota Department of Health is warning consumers not to eat alfalfa sprouts sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands due to E. coli and salmonella contamination. A news release says investigators have linked nearly two dozen illnesses in Minnesota to alfalfa sprouts produced by a Minnesota grower and sold under the two brands to restaurants and grocery stores.
23 illnesses reported in Minnesota
The 23 illnesses reported in Minnesota occurred between July 8 and August 8. Two people required hospitalization. The health department says another 18 cases have been identified in Wisconsin, and the number of illnesses reported is expected to increase.
Serious complications can occur
Symptoms of the bacterial infections include stomach cramps and diarrhea, often with bloody stools, but with only a low-grade or no fever. The symptoms typically become evident two to five days after exposure, and most people recover in five to seven days, although the infections can lead to severe complications that include acute kidney failure.
Health officials issue warning over alfalfa sprouts
Anyone in possession of Calco or Everything Sprouts brand alfalfa sprouts is being urged to throw out the products.
Earlier this month, health officials warned of a nationwide salmonella illness outbreak blamed on certain fresh jalapeno peppers that were sold by a number of large retailers in Minnesota and other states. More than 100 people in Minnesota were sickened by the outbreak.
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