Cantaloupe Melon Salmonella Outbreak Sickens 13, Hospitalizes 4 in United States

Multistate Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Melons from Mexico

CDC Urges Consumers to Avoid Eating Cantaloupe Melons

A salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated cantaloupe melons from Mexico has sickened 13 people and hospitalized four in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The outbreak has been reported in seven states: California, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

The CDC is urging consumers to avoid eating cantaloupe melons until further notice.

Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal cramps.

In severe cases, salmonella infection can lead to hospitalization and even death.

If you have eaten cantaloupe melon recently and are experiencing symptoms of salmonella infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

The CDC is working with state and federal partners to investigate the outbreak and identify the source of the contamination.

In the meantime, consumers are urged to follow these tips to prevent salmonella infection:

• Avoid eating cantaloupe melons until further notice.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Cook meat, poultry, and fish to a safe internal temperature.
• Do not eat raw or undercooked meat, poultry, or fish.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and dairy products.
• If you have any questions about salmonella infection, contact your healthcare provider.