salmonella poisoning following the consumption of cantaloupes in both Canada and the United States.
An outbreak strain of salmonella has infected at least 43 people in the U.S. and nine in Canada, according to officials. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is advising against consuming cantaloupes from three recalled brands: Malichita, Save on Foods, and Urban Fare.
The recall includes whole cantaloupes, as well as pre-cut chunks, fruit salads, and platters containing cantaloupe. In British Columbia, there are eight confirmed cases of the same salmonella strain linked to Malichita cantaloupes, and one confirmed case in Ontario.
The affected Malichita cantaloupes were sold between Oct. 11 and Nov. 14. For Save on Foods and Urban Fare products, the best before dates are up to and including Nov. 9.
Dispose of the recalled products if you have them in your homes. The distributed items were present in all provinces, Yukon, and potentially other territories.
In the U.S., 17 individuals have been hospitalized, and no fatalities have been recorded. The actual number of people affected by the outbreak is likely higher than reported, according to the CDC. Determining whether an individual is part of the outbreak typically takes three to four weeks.
Salmonella infection symptoms, including diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, usually manifest within six hours to six days after consuming contaminated food. Health officials in B.C. note that most individuals recover on their own within seven days.
Certain populations, such as children under five, individuals aged 65 and older, and those with weakened immune systems, may experience more severe illnesses, necessitating medical treatment or hospitalization.
