While most of the patients suffered diarrhea and cramping, two immunocompromised patients were hospitalized with bloodstream infections. The manufacturer, located in Sacramento, has voluntarily recalled the bean sprouts, which were distributed to restaurants and grocery stores in Northern California and Reno area in 12 ounce and 16 ounce plastic bags and in bulk. This is the first reported outbreak of salmonellosis associated with raw mung bean sprouts in the United States. Previous outbreaks have been associated with raw alfalfa and clover sprouts. Salmonellosis is an acute bacterial infection commonly characterized by diarrhea and fever.
Symptoms usually develop within one to four days after eating contaminated food.
Most ill individuals recover without the need for medical attention. Some individuals with salmonellosis develop serious illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death. People who have eaten sprouts and develop symptoms should contact their doctor. Children, the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems should not eat any raw sprouts. Healthy individuals also can become ill from raw sprouts.