Multi-state Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters sickens 6 Virginians

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters has sickened dozens of people across America, including six Virginians.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a Salmonella outbreak after 64 people across 22 states, including Virginia, have become sick with the same strain of Salmonella, according to a Dec. 23 press release.

As of the time of reporting, 20 people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

Virginia is tied with New Jersey for the third-most cases statewide, with a total of six reported as of Dec. 23.

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People with this Salmonella strain have been hospitalized at a higher rate when compared with other outbreaks linked to oysters, according to the CDC.

State and local officials have started their own investigation, finding that 20 out of 27 sick people interviewed reported eating raw oysters in the week they became ill.

Both the CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are working to determine if these oysters come from a common source. At this time, no recall has been issued.

The CDC said that oysters should be cooked before eating to reduce the risk of food poisoning, since raw oysters can be contaminated with germs at any time of the year. It is also not possible to tell if an oyster contains germs just by looking at it.

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People who are infected with Salmonella typically begin to experience symptoms including diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps within six hours to six days after being exposed.

The illness can potentially last from four to seven days, with most people recovering from the treatment. In extreme cases, a sick person may need to be hospitalized. Children under 5 years old, adults 65 years old or older and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop such a severe sickness.

For more information, visit the CDC website.