An outbreak of Salmonella Javiana has sickened more than 30 patients at four healthcare facilities in southeast Pennsylvania, according to U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) report.
Evidence points to a mix of fruit as the source of the outbreak. This mix — called "Fruit Luau" — has been recalled by its producer, Tailor Cut Produce of New Jersey.
As the FDA notes, the recalled products — which were distributed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Delaware between Nov. 15 and Dec. 1, 2019 — may have been distributed to nursing homes, schools, hospitals and other facilities that cater to vulnerable populations.
Salmonella can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis.
The FDA is still investigating the outbreak in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The FDA has not yet identified the four healthcare facilities confirmed as involved.