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10 sickened in Wash. Salmonella outbreak linked to kratom

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.  Mary Esch AP file, 2017

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington State Department of Health says a Salmonella outbreak linked to kratom has widened to 10 people in the state.

The health department says kratom is a plant used as a stimulant and as a substitute for opioids. Officials say it should not be consumed in any form.

Kratom is unregulated and is not safety tested. The Centers for Disease Control said the multi-state outbreak has sickened at least 87 people in at least 35 states.

Officials say anyone who has taken kratom and has symptoms of Salmonella such as severe or bloody diarrhea, fever, chills, abdominal discomfort, and occasionally vomiting should contact their doctor and be sure to mention any products they've consumed that may contain kratom. Some products containing kratom might not list it on the label.

More information about Salmonella can be found on DOH's Salmonella web page.

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