Multi-State Salmonella Linked to Kratom Supplements

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration, and other state and local health departments, is investigating a multi-state cluster of Salmonella associated with kratom. One case linked to the outbreak has been identified in Illinois.

To date, 40 other cases have been reported in 28 states with 14 hospitalizations and no deaths. The Illinois resident reported consuming kratom before illness onset and purchased the kratom at a smoke shop in Williamson County.

Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia that is consumed for its stimulant effects and as an opioid substitute. It is also known as Thang, Kakuam, Thom, Ketom, and Biak. No common brands or suppliers of kratom products have been identified at this time. Accordingly, the CDC is recommending against consuming kratom in any form because it could be contaminated with Salmonella and cause illness.

Symptoms of Salmonella may include headache, muscle aches, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, chills, fever, nausea, and dehydration. Symptoms usually appear 6 to 72 hours after ingesting the bacteria, but can be longer. Person-to-person transmission of Salmonella can occur if an infected person’s feces, from his or her unwashed hands, contaminates food during preparation, or comes into direct contact with another person.

Most illnesses resolve on their own and do not require treatment other than drinking fluids to stay hydrated. If your symptoms persist or are severe, promptly contact your health care provider.