Cucumbers from Mexico may be contaminated

The California Department of Public Health warned people Friday not to eat garden cucumbers imported from Mexico and distributed by Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce, because these cucumbers may be contaminated with salmonella.

As of Friday, 285 people in 27 states have been infected with salmonella serotype poona, and 51 of the patients were from 17 California counties. There has been one death and illnesses continue to be reported, the department said.

Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce of San Diego has initiated a voluntary recall of its garden cucumbers. The recalled garden cucumbers can be identified in distribution channels as “Limited Edition” brand pole-grown cucumbers. The labeling on these cases indicates the product was grown and packed by Rancho Don Juanito in Mexico. These cucumbers were distributed between Aug. 1 and Sept. 3.

The department recommends that consumers check with their grocer to determine if the cucumbers they purchased are part of the recall.

Domestically produced cucumbers are not believed to be involved in this outbreak.

Symptoms of salmonella infection include fever, abdominal cramps and diarrhea that may be bloody. Most infected people recover within a week. Some may develop complications that require hospitalization. Infants, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk for more severe illness. People with ill effects after consuming cucumbers should consult a doctor.

This story was originally published September 4, 2015 at 3:58 PM with the headline "Cucumbers from Mexico may be contaminated."