Salmonella Outbreak Linked To 'Natural' Opioid Kratom: CDC

The CDC is investigating a multi state outbreak of salmonella that has been linked to kratom, an herbal supplement used as a pain reliever and to treat opioid withdrawal symptoms. Earlier this month, the FDA declared that kratom is an opioid and should not be used to treat medical conditions.

The CDC is recommending that people should not consume kratom in any form because it may be contaminated with salmonella. The agency also notes that its recommendation may change as more information becomes available.

As of Feb. 16, 2018, the CDC has taken reports of at least 28 people in 20 states who have been infected with salmonella. Illnesses started on dates ranging from Oct. 13, 2017, to Jan. 30, 2018. No deaths have been reported but 11 people have been hospitalized.

According to the CDC, the people infected in this outbreak reported consuming kratom in pills, powder or tea. The CDC says eight of the 11 people interviewed reported eating kratom.

Here's where cases have been reported:

• Alabama: 1
• Arizona: 1
• California: 3
• Colorado: 1
• Florida: 1
• Kansas: 1
• Kentucky: 1
• Louisiana: 1
• Massachussetts: 1
• Michigan: 1
• North Carolina: 2
• North Dakota: 1
• New York: 1
• Ohio: 2
• Oklahoma: 2
• Oregon: 2
• Pennsylvania: 2
• South Carolina: 1
• Tennessee: 1
• Utah: 2

More information on the outbreak can be found on the CDC website.

SEE ALSO:

• FDA Says 'Kratom' Is An Opioid, Not Safe For Medical Use
• The Dangers And Potential Of 'Natural' Opioid Kratom

Photo: In this Sept. 27, 2017 photo, kratom capsules are displayed in Albany, N.Y. U.S. health authorities say kratom, a herbal supplement promoted as an alternative pain remedy, contains the same chemicals found in opioids, the addictive family of drugs at the center of a national drug abuse crisis. The Food and Drug Administration analysis, published Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018, makes it more likely that kratom could be banned by the federal government. Photo by Mary Esch, File/Associated Press