AUSTIN -- Health officials said Texas has had 35 cases of salmonella since an outbreak thought to stem from raw tomatoes started in April.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the multistate outbreak.

No deaths have been reported.

The Texas Department of State Health Services has not identified specific types and sources of tomatoes that may carry the Saintpaul strain of salmonella.

The consumption of raw Roma and large, red round tomatoes has been implicated as the likely source of infections, officials said.

Salmonellosis has been found in 12 counties -- including Fort Bend, Harris, Brazoria, Bell, Cameron, Dallas, Hays, Jim Wells, Nueces, San Patricio, Tarrant and Travis.

So far, 13 cases have been confirmed in Harris County, two in Houston, and at least one in both Fort Bend and Brazoria counties.

Consumers were advised to:

cook tomatoes to 145 degrees for at least 15 seconds to kill salmonella
avoid buying bruised or damaged tomatoes
throw away tomatoes that appear to be spoiled
thoroughly wash all tomatoes under running water
refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked tomatoes within two hours or throw them away
separate tomatoes that will be eaten raw from any raw meat, poultry, seafood or vegetables
wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and countertops with hot water and soap in between handling of different foods
wash hands thoroughly

Symptoms of salmonella infection include:

headache
stomach pain
diarrhea
nausea
vomiting

Illness from salmonella normally lasts four to seven days and most people generally recover without treatment. People with symptoms are advised to drink plenty of water, get extra rest and visit a doctor as soon as possible. When severe infection occurs, salmonella may spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and then to other body sites and can cause death.

More Information:

CDC: Salmonella Saintpaul Outbreak Investigation
CDC: Salmonella Frequently Asked Questions
CDC: Map of States Reporting Salmonella Saintpaul
Information About New Mexico Salmonella Cases
FDA: Safe Handling of Raw Produce, Fresh-Squeezed Juices