Multistate Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Indiana Grown Cantaloupes

The Kane County Health Department (KCHD) is alerting the public to a recall of cantaloupe grown by Chamberlain Farms in southwestern Indiana because of possible contamination with Salmonella Typhimurium, associated with a multi-state outbreak of salmonellosis.

KCHD is warning consumers not to eat and to discard cantaloupe from this farm, a health department release stated.

A total of 178 people in 21 states have been infected with Salmonella, associated with this outbreak, with illness onset dates ranging from July 7 to Aug. 9

As of early this week, 21 cases had been reported in Illinois representing 11 counties. Eight people had been hospitalized. The investigation into this outbreak continues in order to determine whether there are other possible sources of the outbreak.

Consumers who are buying or have recently bought cantaloupe should ask their retailers if the cantaloupe was grown on Chamberlain Farms of Owensville, Ind.  Consumers are warned not to eat this cantaloupe, and if they have purchased it, they should throw it away. Anyone who shows any signs of illness from salmonellosis should consult their health care provider.

If residents believe they have cantaloupe from this farm, they should not try to wash the harmful bacteria off the cantaloupe as contamination may be both on the inside and outside of the cantaloupe. Cutting, slicing and dicing may also transfer harmful bacteria from the fruit’s surface to the fruit’s flesh. When in doubt, throw it out.

Signs and Symptoms

Most people infected with Salmonella bacteria develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most people recover without treatment. However, for some people, diarrhea may be so severe that the person requires hospitalization. Older adults, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness from Salmonella infection. Among these and other high-risk groups, Salmonella infection may spread and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.

Recommendations

KCHD recommends consumers routinely rinse raw produce such as fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running tap water before eating, cutting or cooking. Even if the produce will be peeled, it should still be washed first. Scrub firm produce such as melons and cucumbers with a clean produce brush. Dry the produce with a clean cloth or paper towel. Separate uncooked meats and poultry from vegetables, cooked foods and ready-to-eat foods to avoid cross contamination.

For more information on Food Safety, visit the Kane County Health Department website.