Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a food safety alert about a multistate Salmonella outbreak tied to cucumbers grown in Mexico.

As of Nov. 27, 68 cases of Salmonella infections have been reported across 19 states, including 18 hospitalizations. While no deaths have been reported, the CDC is urging consumers and businesses to take precautions.

Contaminated cucumbers identified

The outbreak has been traced to cucumbers grown by Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. in Sonora, Mexico. SunFed Produce, LLC, which distributed the cucumbers, has recalled all sizes of whole fresh American cucumbers packaged in bulk cardboard containers for retail and food service.

The recall includes cucumbers labeled with stickers that read "SunFed Mexico."

What consumers should do

The CDC recommends the following steps to protect against illness:

• Check your cucumbers: If the sticker indicates "SunFed Mexico," throw them away or return them to the store where they were purchased.
• Discard uncertain cucumbers: If you bought whole fresh American cucumbers between Oct. 12 and Nov. 26 and cannot confirm where they were grown, dispose of them.
• Sanitize surfaces: Wash cutting boards, utensils and countertops that may have come into contact with the cucumbers using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
• Monitor symptoms: Seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms of Salmonella, such as diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps.

Guidance for businesses

The CDC advises businesses not to sell or serve recalled cucumbers and to sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated produce. Retailers are encouraged to notify customers who may have purchased the affected cucumbers.

About Salmonella

Salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps within six hours to six days of exposure. Most cases resolve within a week without treatment, but severe infections may require hospitalization. Young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for severe illness.

For additional details and updates, visit the CDC's outbreak page at cdc.gov. The agency stated that questions about cases in specific states should be directed to state health departments.