KING COUNTY, WA - Investigation of the salmonella muenchen outbreak continues in King County and around Washington State. Cases have also been identified in several other states as well as Canadian provinces. The source of infection has been identified as unpastuerized orange juice from Sun Orchard.
Currently, Public Health - Seattle & King County has identified 63 cases of salmonella among King County residents. Thirty-six of these have been confirmed as salmonella muenchen and related to this outbreak. Lab tests are pending on the remaining cases. Public Health continues to investigate numerous other reports of potentially related illness.
In addition, 28 cases of salmonella have been identified in other Washington counties with 16 confirmed as related to this salmonella muenchen outbreak. Case reports have also been made Oregon, California, Texas, New Mexico, Utah, Arizona, Alaska, New York, Iowa, Alberta, and British Columbia.
The Food and Drug Administration has identified at least five types of salmonella from reserve samples retrieved from Sun Orchard's processing plant in Tempe, Arizona. This finding indicates that the source of salmonella contamination occurred either at the Sun Orchard plant or prior to the juice's arrival at the plant for processing. Sun Orchard has recalled all of its unpastuerized orange juice products.
Consumers having questions about unpastuerized orange juice products may call 1-800-505-8423.
Salmonella is a bacteria that causes infection of the intestines. Symptoms usually develop 6-72 hours after the bacteria are swallowed. Symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, headache, fever, vomiting, and dehydration. These may disappear without treatment in 2-5 days.
Persons who believe that they drank unpastuerized orange juice and develop the symptoms of salmonella should consult their health care provider for diagnosis and care. Treatment for salmonella infections consists of rest and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
