Dozens sickened by Salmonella from raw oysters across U.S., including in Illinois

Editor’s Note: The video in the above player is from a previous report.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning after raw oysters were linked to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak, with almost half of U.S. states reporting cases — including Illinois.

Across 22 states, 64 people have been sickened by the same strain of Salmonella and 74% of those interviewed by the CDC reported eating raw oysters the week before they got sick, according to the CDC’s investigation notice issued Tuesday.

Only one case has been reported so far in Illinois, though the CDC warns the true number of people sickened by the outbreak is likely much higher than the currently reported number because many recover without medical care and are not tested for Salmonella.

Missouri also reported one case. Many East Coast states have the highest reported cases, with 10 cases in Pennsylvania, 7 in New York and 6 in New Jersey. A map of the reported cases is available here.

While no deaths from the illness have been reported, 20 people who were sickened required hospitalization, according to the CDC.

The CDC and Food and Drug Administration are working together to determine if a common source of oysters can be identified. No recall has been issued as of Dec. 24.

Most people develop diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps if infected with Salmonella, according to the CDC. Recovery is typical after 4 to 7 days without treatment.

Children younger than 5, adults 65 and older and people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe illnesses that could require medical treatment or hospitalization, the CDC said.

The CDC advises people to call a healthcare provider right away if they have any of the following Salmonella symptoms:

• Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102 degrees
• Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving
• Bloody diarrhea
• So much vomiting that you cannot keep liquids down
• Signs of dehydration, such as:
  • Not peeing much
  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Feeling dizzy when standing up

Tips on how to prepare and cook oysters safely can be found in the investigation notice and general tips on avoiding Salmonella from the CDC are available here.