Federal authorities have determined that a Salmonella Infantis outbreak that has sickened people in 11 states is caused by flour. The outbreak was first noted by the FDA on March 29.

The majority of the patients claimed to have consumed flour-based batter or raw dough before becoming ill. The only common component in the uncooked batter or dough that people reported eating was flour. There are 12 sick people across the nation suggests that an item with wide distribution is to blame for the outbreak. Patients are located in Oregon, California, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Tennessee, Ohio, Virginia, and New York, among other states. The median age of sick people is 64, and 92% of them are female. Their ages range from 12 to 81.

According to the CDC, the actual number of sick people in this outbreak is probably much higher than the reported number. Also, many people recover without seeking medical attention  Salmonella germs can be present in any raw flour used to make dough or batter, but these germs are destroyed when the flour is cooked or baked. After consuming or tasting uncooked batter or dough, you may become ill. When handling or consuming raw dough used for crafts or play clay, children can become ill.

The symptoms of a Salmonella infection should be reported by anyone who has consumed or prepared food with any raw flour. Salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever 6 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. Serious illnesses and potentially fatal conditions are more likely to affect older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients.