Kratom Hazards Salmonella Out Break
Key Take Away
- Kratom and Salmonella Outbreak Link: The press release highlights a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella infections associated with kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, used for its stimulant and opioid-like effects.
- One Case in Illinois: Among the multiple states affected, Illinois has reported one case connected to this outbreak, emphasizing the widespread nature of this health issue.
- Symptoms of Salmonella: The article outlines the symptoms of Salmonella infection, including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, which are crucial for public awareness and early detection.
- Public Health Advisory: The release serves as a public health advisory, informing people about the potential risks associated with kratom consumption and the current outbreak.
- Precautionary Measures: It underscores the importance of precautions to avoid contamination and recommends seeking medical attention if symptoms are observed.
Table of Contents
1. The Rising Popularity of Kratom: An Overview
Kratom, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, has gained significant attention for its potential benefits and risks. Traditionally used for its medicinal properties, kratom has become increasingly popular in Western countries. It’s known for its stimulant effects and as an opioid substitute, consumed in various forms like powder, capsules, and tea.
SUMMARY
The Illinois Department of Public Health reported a multi-state Salmonella outbreak linked to kratom, with one case identified in Illinois. This situation raises concerns about the safety of consuming kratom products for lawmakers nationwide.
2. Health Benefits and Uses of Kratom
Kratom leaves contain compounds that interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing sedation, pleasure, and decreased pain. It’s often used for:
- Pain relief
- Mood enhancement
- Energy boost
- Opioid withdrawal relief
- Muscle Relaxant
Despite its therapeutic potential, kratom is not FDA-approved due to insufficient research on its long-term effects. This maybe the position of the FDA however there several great studies by proponents of kratom including many private short term and long term studies that clearly show it is in fact a reasonable replacement for opioids.
3. The Kratom-Salmonella Outbreak Connection
A recent multi-state outbreak of Salmonella infections has been linked to kratom products. This raises concerns about the safety and quality control in the production and distribution of kratom supplements.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
Salmonella infection symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
Symptoms typically appear within 6 to 72 hours after exposure and can last up to a week.
4. Safety Measures and Recommendations
To prevent contamination and spread of Salmonella, it’s crucial to:
- Ensure proper hygiene and sanitation in kratom production
- Avoid consumption of raw or improperly processed kratom
- Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen
5. Individual Experiences Of Illness
In 2018 I spoke with one particular client of mine who I hadn’t seen in a while. They had first discovered kratom from my shop The Daily Dose. After some time he stopped coming in. When he did visit again he wanted to buy kratom and mentioned he was buying kilos of cheap kratom online and that in one instance he had gotten sick beyond belief.
He didn’t think anything of it for over a week and continued to take it till he ended up in the emergency room. It became clear at that point he was ill because of Salmonella poisoning.
The point here is do not fall for cheap kratom, inexpensive kratom is cheap for a reason and it’s not worth your health or your life to save some money.
6. The Need for Regulated Kratom Production
The kratom-Salmonella outbreak underscores the need for regulated production and quality control. Establishing standard practices can help ensure the safety and efficacy of kratom products. Over the years the American Kratom Association has made ground breaking changes in Congress with a Bill they themselves helped write. The purpose is to help importers and manufacturers follow a set of guidelines that will enable them to come out of the darkness and into a realm of transparency.
AN OPEN LETTER TO TAMPA BAY TIMES EDITOR MARK KATCHES
— American Kratom Association (@TheKratomAssn) January 3, 2024
WHERE THE TAMPA BAY TIMES GOT IT WRONG: THE KRATOM CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT (“KCPA”) IS ABOUT ENSURING THE SAFETY OF KRATOM PRODUCTS SOLD TO CONSUMERS!
Read full letter- https://t.co/BlddPvug90
This Bill is called The American Kratom Consumer Protection Act and it is a very comprehensive document led by prominent figures in the kratom world and industry. The Bill outlines exactly how to handle kratom from import, lab testing, processing, packaging and even labeling. This Bill has been enacted by 4 states as of now they are as follows;
- Arizona
- Georgia
- Nevada
- Utah
There is an on going effort to keep kratom safe you can join the fight by signing the petition. Here is the recent Tweet from the AKA discussing how you can participate in keeping kratom safe for everyone.
Join the AKA tonight @ 9pm ET for the latest on consumer protection in 2024
— American Kratom Association (@TheKratomAssn) January 4, 2024
Check your email for registration links
& make sure you've signed the petition at https://t.co/BlddPvtIjs pic.twitter.com/TICXI3g9CP
Join the AKA tonight @ 9pm ET for the latest on consumer protection in 2024
— American Kratom Association (@TheKratomAssn) January 4, 2024
Check your email for registration links
& make sure you've signed the petition at https://t.co/BlddPvtIjs pic.twitter.com/TICXI3g9CP
7. Conclusion: Kratom News & A Balanced Approach
While kratom offers potential health benefits, its safety and efficacy require more research and regulation according to the FDA. The current position by the FDA on Kratom can be found here FDA Disclosure Of Kratom. Consumers should exercise caution and only purchase kratom from reputable sources that can provide lab reports of what they carry and sell.
Though experts recommend speaking with a doctor about kratom, from my experience very few doctors are even familiar with kratom by name let alone be able to make recommendations to anyone wanting to try it.
FAQs
What is the recent health concern related to kratom?
The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to the consumption of kratom, a plant used for its stimulant and pain-relief properties.
How many cases have been reported in Illinois?
There has been one case reported in Illinois as part of this multi-state outbreak, indicating the widespread nature of this public health issue.
What are the symptoms of a Salmonella infection?
Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. They usually develop within 6 to 72 hours after exposure to the bacteria.
What precautions should be taken regarding kratom use?
Individuals should exercise caution with kratom consumption, especially during the outbreak. It’s advised to ensure proper hygiene and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms indicative of Salmonella infection.
What is the public health advisory regarding this outbreak?
The public health advisory emphasizes the risks associated with kratom use, particularly in light of the Salmonella outbreak. It advises the public to be aware of the symptoms and to seek medical care if they suspect an infection.
Sources:
- Breaking News: https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.15447.html
- FDA: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cms_ia/importalert_1137.html
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- Kratom-News Today: Mis-Information On The Ban
- Kratom Bans News Now Info And Politics
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- Kratom Use Linked To Liver Damage: The Data
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