The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended the public avoid cantaloupes due to a salmonella outbreak.
Two people have died, and 45 have been hospitalized as a result of coming into contact with the salmonella bacteria found in the melon. Those affected hail from as many as 32 states, which included 17 new states added Friday.
‘RADICALIZED’ STUDENTS STORM PRO-ISRAEL TEACHER’S CLASSROOM IN NEW YORK
This warning applies to whole cantaloupes and pre-cut cubes sold individually and in fruit trays. Recalls are in effect for cantaloupes hailing from Mexico with stickers that read: “Malichita” or “Rudy.” Some of these infected cantaloupe were sold as recently as Nov. 12. The CDC issued its first warning on Nov. 17.
“Do not eat any recalled cantaloupes and other fruit products,” the CDC wrote on its website. “Throw them away or return them to where you bought them. Wash items and surfaces that may have touched the recalled fruit using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.”
Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and a fever, which may begin to show as late as six days after consumption. Most people recover within a week, but for those with weakened immune systems, such as children under five and people over 65, more serious illnesses may occur.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Canada is experiencing a similar outbreak, and the involved fruit companies have issued a recall there as well. The now-recalled melons were sold as recently as Nov. 24 to Canadian customers, with 17 getting hospitalized and one dying as a result.
Cantaloupes are at their peak season between June and August. The last time there was a salmonella outbreak among the melons was in 2019, just before their peak season. There were no deaths reported then.
