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Today’s Infectious Disease News (1/21/24)

Food Poisoning Outbreak from Tainted Cantaloupes Officially Over

The food poisoning outbreak caused by cantaloupe has officially ended. The cantaloupe, which contained a harmful bacteria called Salmonella, sickened at least 407 people and hospitalized 158. Six patients died as a result of eating the tainted fruit. The outbreak spanned 44 states, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania. All contaminated items have either been recalled or are past the use-by date. To see a full list of recalled cantaloupe products, visit the FDA’s recall webpage.

Charcuterie Meat Recalled Due to Salmonella Contamination

Health officials are actively investigating foodborne illnesses linked to charcuterie meats, which have been tied to 47 infections and 10 hospitalizations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns Americans to avoid eating the products in question: Busseto brand Charcuterie Sampler from Sam’s Club and Fratelli Beretta brand Antipasto Gran Beretta from Costco. If you have these items at home, discard them immediately. Make sure to clean (with hot soapy water) any containers and surfaces that came into contact with the food. Call your physicians if you experience any of the following symptoms often associated with Salmonella:

  • A fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit and Diarrhea
  • Excessive vomiting
  • Diarrhea for more than three days and showing no signs of improvement
  • Bloody diarrhea
  • Dehydration symptoms, including
    • Very little urination
    • Dizziness upon standing
    • Dry mouth

For more information on this outbreak, see: CDC, USA Today