People are still getting sick from the cucumber salmonella outbreak

Imported cucumbers linked to the September salmonella outbreak that killed four people are still making people sick, according to a recent statement by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The organization said that 71 more people have become ill since its last update on the recall on Oct. 14.

New cases were reported in Connecticut and New Hampshire, bringing the total number of states affected to 38. There are 838 cases of salmonella, four deaths and 165 hospitalizations reported in connection with the imported cucumbers, which were produced in Baja California and Mexico.

Illnesses linked to the cucumbers began on dates ranging from July 3 to Nov. 1.

California, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Texas are among the affected states.

According to the CDC statement, the number of reported illnesses has declined since August and September, but that number is not as low as it should be, five months after the initial outbreak.

The CDC is still investigating the initial recall, which affected cucumbers sold under the Fat Boy label that were distributed by Custom Produce Sales from Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce starting Aug. 1.

The affected cucumbers have dark green skin, are 7 to 10 inches long and are sold in bulk, without any wrapper.

If you purchased any recalled items, the CDC advises disposing of the cucumbers and washing and sanitizing the refrigerator drawers or shelves where they were stored. If you’re unsure about the cucumbers you have, contact the store from where you bought them.

Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. Those infected are usually sick for four to seven days.

For more food news, follow me on Twitter @Jenn_Harris_

ALSO:

The ultimate holiday pie survival guide

13 wines for the holiday table at $25 or under

Guy flips out over Patti LaBelle’s Wal-Mart pie on YouTube. And now they’re $60 each on EBay.