### Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Florida Cucumbers Affects 45 People Across 18 States

A salmonella outbreak traced to cucumbers has resulted in illnesses for at least 45 individuals across 18 states, according to health authorities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.) announced that the number of people affected is likely underreported.

Major retailers, including Target, have recalled cucumber-containing products associated with the outbreak. Reports of the illnesses are predominantly from the Midwest and East Coast, with Georgia and Florida accounting for nearly one-third of the cases. So far, 16 individuals have been hospitalized due to the infection.

The outbreak has been linked to Bedner Growers, a cucumber grower based in Boynton Beach, Florida. Their cucumbers, distributed between April 29 and May 19, were found to be potentially contaminated and had made their way to various stores and restaurants.

Interestingly, eight of the sickened individuals had been passengers on cruise ships that departed from Florida within a week of falling ill, according to the C.D.C. Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and dehydration.

Health officials are urging consumers to discard any cucumbers purchased during the mentioned period to prevent further spread of the infection. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the outbreak.