2 people in Minnesota die after salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupes
MINNEAPOLIS — Two people in Minnesota died after they got sick with Salmonella from pre-cut cantaloupes.
The Centers for Disease Control says that 99 people across 32 states have been infected, and 45 of them have been hospitalized. The outbreak has also been linked to ill people in Canada. So far, there are 13 cases confirmed in Minnesota — seven of those were hospitalized.
The following cantaloupe products have been recalled:
- Whole cantaloupes with a sticker "Malichita" or "Rudy" with the number "4050" and "Product of Mexico/produit du Mexique"
- Vineyard brand pre-cut cantaloupes
- Aldi whole cantaloupe and pre-cut fruit products including pineapple spears in clamshell packaging
- Freshness Guaranteed brand and RaceTrac brand pre-cut cantaloupes
Officials say that people should not eat any of the recalled cantaloupes, and to wash items that may have touched the cantaloupes using hot soapy water. People should throw away any recalled cantaloupes or return them to the store they purchased them from.
People who experience severe Salmonella symptoms — which include diarrhea, a fever of higher than 102 degrees, and vomiting — should call their health care provider. Symptoms usually start six hours to six days after swallowing the bacteria.
Supervisor of the Foodborne Diseases Unit at the Minnesota Department of Health Carlota Medus says to be cautious and be aware of any symptoms you might have.
"In this particular outbreak, we have seen very severe illnesses," Medus said. "So someone usually will present with diarrhea and fever. If somebody has a diarrhea illness that last multiple days and they're not getting better, they should consult a health care provider."
Health providers must report to MDH diseases like salmonella so it can do further testing and ask questions of the sick to find the source.
Medus says more brands of the fruit could be recalled soon, so buyers beware.
Businesses are urged not to sell any of the recalled cantaloupes.