Editor's note: A news release from the El Paso City County Health Department

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The first laboratory-confirmed case of Salmonella saintpaul has been reported in El Paso County. The patient is a 53 year-old female. The Department of Public Health is conducting interviews and an investigation of the case.

At this time, the City of El Paso Department of Public Health is recommending consumers limit their tomato consumption to cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, tomatoes sold with the vine still attached, and tomatoes grown at home. Consumers should be aware that raw tomatoes are often used in the preparation of fresh salsa, guacamole, and pico de gallo, are part of fillings for tortillas, and are used in many other dishes. People who want to reduce their risk of Salmonella infection avoid eating raw red plum, red Roma or round red tomatoes other than those sold attached to the vine or grown at home.

Customers are advised to:

Avoid purchasing bruised or damaged tomatoes and discard any that appear spoiled.

Thoroughly wash all tomatoes under running water.
Refrigerate within two hours or discard cut, peeled or cooked tomatoes.

Keep tomatoes that will be eaten raw separate from raw meats, raw seafood and other raw produce items.

Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and counter tops with hot water and soap when switching between types of food products.

Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and warm water especially after going to the restroom, before preparing or serving food and after changing a diaper.

Clinical features of Salmonella Infection
Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12–72 hours after infection. Infection is usually diagnosed by culture of a stool sample. The illness usually lasts 4 – 7 days. Although most people recover without treatment, severe infections may occur. Infants, elderly persons, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe illness. When severe infection occurs, Salmonella may spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and then to other body sites and can cause death. In these severe cases, antibiotic treatment may be necessary. In some cases, people with severe diarrhea may need to be hospitalized. People with symptoms should drink plenty of water, get extra rest and visit a doctor as soon as possible. Cases should be reported to the City of El Paso Department of Public Health at 771-5810.

More information can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/saintpaul/