Melon Mayhem: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cantaloupes

*What is Salmonella?*

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness. Symptoms of salmonellosis include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Most people recover from salmonellosis within a week without treatment, but some people may need to be hospitalized.

**Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Cantaloupes**

In recent months, there have been several outbreaks of salmonellosis linked to cantaloupes. These outbreaks have been reported in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

**Symptoms of Salmonella**

The symptoms of salmonellosis typically begin 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. These symptoms can include:

* Diarrhea

* Fever

* Abdominal cramps

* Headache

* Nausea

* Vomiting

**Most people recover from salmonellosis within a week without treatment.** However, some people may experience more severe symptoms and require hospitalization.

**Prevention of Salmonella**

There are several things you can do to prevent salmonellosis, including:

* **Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs.**

* **Cook meat, poultry, and seafood to a safe internal temperature.**

* **Do not eat raw or undercooked eggs.**

* **Wash fruits and vegetables before eating.**

* **Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from other foods.**

**Outbreak Investigation**

Public health officials are currently investigating the outbreaks of salmonellosis linked to cantaloupes. They are working to identify the source of the contamination and to prevent further illnesses.

**Recall of Cantaloupes**

Several brands of cantaloupes have been recalled due to the risk of salmonella contamination. If you have purchased cantaloupes in recent weeks, it is important to check the recall information to see if they are affected.

**What to Do if You Get Sick**

If you think you may have salmonellosis, it is important to see your doctor. They can diagnose your illness and recommend treatment.

**Additional Resources**

* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: [https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/index.html](https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/index.html))

* Food and Drug Administration: [https://www.fda.gov/food](https://www.fda.gov/food))

* World Health Organization: [https://m.facebook.com/WHO/photos/salmonellosis-is-a-disease-you-get-by-eating-contaminated-food-or-by-touching-an/918420148203369/](https://m.facebook.com/WHO/photos/salmonellosis-is-a-disease-you-get-by-eating-contaminated-food-or-by-touching-an/918420148203369/)

**Conclusion**

Salmonella is a common bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. It is important to take steps to prevent salmonellosis, such as washing your hands thoroughly and cooking food to a safe internal temperature. If you think you may have salmonellosis, it is important to see your doctor.