WASHINGTON – The government yesterday increased the number of people reported sickened in a record salmonella outbreak in which tomatoes are the leading suspect, though investigators are testing other types of fresh produce.
There have been 943 reported cases nationwide, with at least 130 hospitalizations since mid-April after the first salmonella illnesses appeared, the Food and Drug Administration said yesterday. That compares with a total of 922 people reported about two days ago and 869 reported earlier in the past week.
The FDA said it had begun looking at jalapeño peppers as a possible cause of the outbreak, as well as ingredients used to make salsa, such as cilantro and Serrano peppers. Tomatoes continue to be investigated, spokeswoman Stephanie Kwisnek said.
On Tuesday, the government said it would test numerous types of fresh produce commonly served with fresh tomatoes, but said tomatoes remained the leading culprit.
Investigators with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have interviewed people sickened in June to find out what they ate and to compare their diets with those of healthy relatives and neighbors. Officials haven't revealed early findings except to say they supported the investigation's new move.
The FDA said it is exploring whether tomatoes and other produce are sharing a common packing or shipping site where both might become contaminated, or whether multiple foods might be tainted while being grown on adjoining farms or with common water sources.
Officials said some patients have told the CDC that they ate raw tomatoes in fresh salsa and guacamole.
