San Antonio, TX, December 27, 2025
A salmonella outbreak tied to raw oysters has impacted 64 individuals across 22 U.S. states, including Texas. The CDC reports that 20 have been hospitalized, but no fatalities have occurred. Health officials are investigating the source of contamination, with no recall announced. Symptoms can include diarrhea and fever, with vulnerable groups at higher risk. Cooking oysters is the recommended preventive measure.
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Raw Oysters Affects 22 U.S. States
San Antonio, TX — An ongoing salmonella outbreak associated with raw oysters has sickened 64 individuals across 22 U.S. states, including Texas. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 20 people have been hospitalized; however, no deaths have been reported. Health officials are actively investigating to identify a common source of the contaminated oysters, but as of now, no recall has been announced.
States Affected
The salmonella cases have been reported in the following states:
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Maryland
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Massachusetts
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Georgia
- New Jersey
- Virginia
- New York
- Pennsylvania
Symptoms and Vulnerable Groups
Individuals infected with salmonella may experience symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, generally appearing six hours to six days after exposure. The illness typically lasts four to seven days, with most people recovering without the need for treatment. However, severe cases may require hospitalization. Vulnerable populations, including children under 5, adults aged 65 and older, and those with weakened immune systems, are at a heightened risk for severe illness.
Preventive Measures
Health officials advise that cooking oysters prior to consumption can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness, as oysters can harbor germs year-round. It’s important to note that hot sauce and lemon juice do not eliminate the germs, and the contaminants are not visible on the oysters. For more guidance, individuals are encouraged to reach out to their respective state’s health department.
Understanding Salmonella
Salmonella is a bacterial infection often transmitted through contaminated food. Previous outbreaks have been linked to a variety of food items, including raw produce and poultry. The ongoing investigation seeks to determine the specific source of this contamination to prevent further occurrences.
Key Takeaways
The current salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters emphasizes the importance of food safety practices and public awareness. Local entrepreneurs in the food industry play a critical role in ensuring the safety of the supply chain, and maintaining healthy practices can prevent these hazardous outbreaks from affecting consumers. Community involvement, education, and responsiveness to health measures are vital in supporting a resilient food and business environment in San Antonio.
Contact Information
For any inquiries related to cases in specific states, individuals should contact their local health department. In Georgia, the Department of Health can be reached at (404) 657-2700.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current status of the salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters?
An ongoing salmonella outbreak associated with raw oysters has sickened 64 individuals across 22 U.S. states, including Texas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that at least 20 people have been hospitalized, though no deaths have been reported. Health officials are investigating to identify a common source of the oysters; no recall has been announced at this time.
Which states have reported cases of salmonella linked to raw oysters?
The salmonella cases have been reported in the following states: Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, North Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Maryland, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Massachusetts, South Carolina, Texas, Georgia, New Jersey, Virginia, New York, and Pennsylvania.
What are the symptoms of salmonella infection?
Individuals infected with salmonella may experience symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically six hours to six days after exposure. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, with most people recovering without treatment. However, severe cases may require hospitalization. Vulnerable populations, including children under 5, adults 65 and older, and individuals with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe illness.
How can I prevent salmonella infection from raw oysters?
Health officials advise cooking oysters before consumption to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, as oysters can be contaminated with germs year-round. Hot sauce and lemon juice do not kill the germs, and germs are not visible on oysters. For more information, individuals should contact their state’s health department.
Who should I contact for more information about salmonella cases in my state?
For questions about cases in a particular state, individuals should call their state’s health department. In Georgia, the Department of Health can be reached at (404) 657-2700.
Key Features of the Salmonella Outbreak
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Cases | 64 individuals across 22 U.S. states |
| States Affected | Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, North Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Maryland, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Massachusetts, South Carolina, Texas, Georgia, New Jersey, Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania |
| Hospitalizations | At least 20 people hospitalized |
| Deaths | No deaths reported |
| Investigation Status | Health officials are investigating to identify a common source; no recall announced |
| Preventive Measure | Cook oysters before consumption; hot sauce and lemon juice do not kill germs |
| Contact Information | For questions, contact state health departments; in Georgia, call (404) 657-2700 |
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