Berry Mix Causes Hepatitis Outbreak
The Food and Drug Administration is investigating a hepatitis outbreak, with the cause suspected to be an organic berry mix sold by Townsend Farms, an Oregon company. There have been over 30 illnesses reported in Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada and California. Many of those that reported the illness bought the product at Costco, which has since taken the product off of their shelves.
Hepatitis A is a contagious disease that can affect an individual for a few weeks or months. An individual can contract the disease due to improper food preparation.
A recall of the organic berry mix has not been announced, but the CDC is telling retailers and other food service companies to take the Townsend Farms Organic Anti-Oxidant Blend from their shelves. The Food and Drug Administration is inspecting the company’s facilities, but the CDC said the specific strain of hepatitis is not usually seen in North or South America, but is found in North Africa and Middle East regions.
Townsend Farms lawyer, Bill Gaar, announced that the blend of berries contained pomegranate seeds that come from Turkey, and are only used in this specific blend. He explained that the company has very good records and know where the seeds come from. He also stated that they believe Costco is the only company to have bought the product, but they are checking to make sure.
If you purchased this berry blend from a Costco near you, we urge you to dispose of it immediately. If you believe that you have been infected, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Jaundice
- Abnormal liver tests
- Dark urine
- Pale stool
The symptoms will start to occur 15 to 50 days after exposure. If vaccinated within two weeks of exposure, illness may be prevented.
Those who have already been vaccinated will most likely not get sick from the disease.
If you have become ill from this berry mix, call our Ohio product liability claims lawyers. Our team has dealt with cases of this nature and can help you navigate through the process.