Raw TX Oysters Unsafe: How to Avoid Deadly Salmonella Symptoms

Attention all seafood connoisseurs in Texas! The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning of a Salmonella outbreak across 22 states—Texas included.

Put Those Oysters Down!

The CDC said on Tuesday, December 23, that 64 people across the country have reportedly gotten sick from Salmonella after eating raw oysters. Twenty have been hospitalized and—get this—two of those hospitalizations were right here in Texas.

You can see the full list of states where the outbreak is confirmed here.

They made sure to emphasize that the true number of positive cases is likely much higher. The 64 cases were just those that have been reported.

It also can take up to four weeks to determine if someone is sick before they can be added to the statistics.

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If you want to avoid the risk of spreading Salmonella when preparing or eating oysters, you can always cook the seafood until the centers reach 145 degrees for about 15 seconds. This kills any harmful bacteria that could make your next bathroom visit one to remember.

What Symptoms of Salmonella Should I be Looking for?

If you have recently enjoyed some scrumptious oysters in Texas and fear you are at risk of contracting this bacterial illness, you can always stay alert and watch for these key symptoms:

Watery or bloody diarrhea (you're welcome for writing that)
Stomach cramps
Headaches
Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of appetite

Any of these symptoms typically start showing up within six days of eating contaminated foods and can last four to seven days, on average.

You should always drink plenty of fluid if you have Salmonella, especially since you'll most likely be "expelling" so much throughout the day.

Stay up to date through the investigation on the Salmonella Infection page posted on the CDC website. Here you can track any changes in the outbreak and what steps to take moving forward.