PADUCAH, KY - The Kentucky Department for Public Health says they're seeing an increase in the number of Salmonella cases normally seen this time of year. While officials say it can not yet be considered an outbreak, local health departments will continue to investigate, and work with the state to determine if they are linked and how.

Salmonella symptoms may include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps starting within 6-72 hours after exposure and usually ending within 5-7 days.

The major sources of transmission are from ingestion of contaminated food or from contact with reptiles (especially in young children). Contaminated foods may especially include poultry, unpasteurized milk, raw fruits and vegetables, but may come from other sources as well. You may be able to prevent this disease by washing produce before preparing or consuming, avoiding cross-contamination of foods, cooking foods thoroughly, and good hand hygiene.

For more information, visit cdc.gov/salmonella or contact Brandi Earp at 270-444-9625 ext. 147.

Information provided by Purchase District Health Departmentt.