ATLANTA, Georgia – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that the cantaloupe salmonella outbreak, which caused numerous deaths and hundreds of hospitalizations, has officially come to an end. The outbreak, which was traced back to cantaloupes from Guatemala, resulted in a total of 261 reported cases across 24 states, leading to 94 hospitalizations and two deaths. The CDC had issued a warning advising consumers to avoid eating, selling, or serving the affected cantaloupes.
According to the CDC, epidemiologic and laboratory evidence indicated that the cantaloupes were the likely source of the outbreak. The agency conducted a thorough investigation, identifying the specific supplier of the contaminated cantaloupes and working with public health officials to track and monitor the cases. The contaminated cantaloupes were recalled, and the CDC advised consumers to discard any remaining cantaloupes from Guatemala to prevent further illnesses.
Salmonella infection can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, which usually develop 12 to 72 hours after infection and can last for four to seven days. While most people recover without treatment, the infection can be more severe for older adults, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The CDC emphasized the importance of proper food handling, reminding consumers to wash their hands and surfaces often, separate raw meat from other foods, cook foods to the right temperature, and refrigerate foods promptly. Additionally, the agency urged consumers to be aware of food recalls and to stay informed about foodborne illness outbreaks.
The end of the cantaloupe salmonella outbreak marks a significant milestone in safeguarding public health and ensuring the safety of consumers. The CDC’s efforts in identifying and addressing the outbreak have been instrumental in preventing further illnesses and raising awareness about the importance of food safety. Moving forward, it is essential for consumers to remain vigilant and stay informed about potential food-related risks.