US health officials have advised against eating pre-cut cantaloupe from unknown sources. This comes as the rampaging salmonella outbreak continues to grow.
Don't Eat Pre-Cut Cantaloupe From Unknown Sources
Earlier recalls of pre-cut and even whole cantaloupes have expanded to cover Bix produce, Kwik Trip markets, and the distributor GHGA, which sent over products that were recalled to Trader Joe, Kroger, and Sprouts Farmers Markets across the US. This was according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
These recall efforts come after at least 117 individuals in the US reportedly got sick due to contaminated cantaloupe.
Given the recall scope and the uncertainty regarding the cantaloupe's source, officials are cautioning consumers. The FDA explains in a statement that if one is unable to tell if the cantaloupe, including actual pre-cut ones or products with pre-cut ones, is part of the recall efforts, the cantaloupe should not be eaten or used. Rather, it should be thrown away.
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Salmonella Outbreak
Salmonella is a bacteria that leads to an infection known as salmonellosis. The bacteria dwell in the animal's intestinal tract. They are typically transmitted to humans via the consumption of foods that are contaminated with the feces of infected animals.
Each year, there are around 40,00 salmonellosis cases reported across the US. However, since milder cases may not be diagnosed or reported, the actual count could be at least thirty times greater than these figures.
Among the 117 individuals that got sick due to contaminated cantaloupe, 61 were hospitalized while two ended up dying.
In Canada, 63 illnesses as well as 1 death and 17 hospitalizations have been reported. These cases were linked to the same salmonella outbreak.
The number of people who are actually sick could be higher than the reported counts. The outbreak may also not be limited to states where the illnesses are known, as it may take three to four weeks to know if a sick person falls under the salmonella outbreak.
Most individuals who get infected by the bacteria experience stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever within six hours to six days post-consumption of food that is contaminated. The illness can last for up to four to seven days.
Those who are vulnerable, such as children, adults over the age of 65, and those with weaker immune systems, could end up developing severe illnesses due to the bacteria. In such cases, it may be necessary to seek medical assistance or be hospitalized.
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