The FDA has increased the recall of cantaloupe due to a rise in salmonella cases, which have doubled in just one week.
This week, the number of people affected by salmonella has increased by more than double, prompting U.S. health officials to recall three additional brands of whole and pre-cut cantaloupes on Friday.
Over 90 individuals in 32 different states have become ill due to the tainted fruits. The states with the most reported cases are Arizona, Missouri, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Ohio. In Minnesota, two people have passed away from the infection, and a total of 45 individuals have been hospitalized across the country.
The initial recall by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration encompassed whole cantaloupes from Malichita brand, pre-cut cantaloupes from Vinyard brand, as well as whole cantaloupes and pre-cut fruit products from ALDI. On Friday, whole cantaloupes from Rudy brand and pre-cut cantaloupes from Freshness Guaranteed brand and RaceTrac brand were also added to the list.
Health experts advise individuals who purchased the recalled fruits to discard them and clean any surfaces that came into contact with them using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
The majority of individuals who contract salmonella experience symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within six hours to six days of consuming food contaminated with the bacteria. These symptoms usually persist for four to seven days. Those who are most susceptible – such as children, adults over 65, and those with compromised immune systems – may suffer from severe illnesses that may require medical attention or hospitalization.
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JoNel Aleccia, a health writer for the Associated Press, contributed to this report.
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