Cantaloupes linked to Salmonella Outbreak in Canada - Update Dic 22th

Canada

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) published an update on the multiprovince outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to cantaloupes. As of December 22, there have been 164 laboratory-confirmed cases of Salmonella Soahanina, Sundsvall and Oranienburg illness linked to this outbreak in the following provinces: British Columbia (18), Alberta (4), Ontario (21), Quebec (111), Prince Edward Island (2), New Brunswick (2), Nova Scotia (4) and Newfoundland and Labrador (2). 61 individuals have been hospitalized and 7 deaths have been reported. Individuals became sick between mid-October and early December 2023. For this outbreak, the illness reporting period is between 2 and 6 weeks. The investigation is ongoing.

Malichita and Rudy brand cantaloupes have been identified as the likely source of the outbreak.

CFIA issued food recall warnings on November 1, November 14 and November 17 for Malichita brand cantaloupes sold between October 11 and November 14, 2023. On November 24, 2023, CFIA updated the food recall warning to also include Rudy brand cantaloupes sold between October 10 and November 24, 2023. Additional secondary recalls have been issued for products that were made using recalled cantaloupes and for produce items that were processed alongside recalled cantaloupes.

To prevent illness, do not eat, serve, use, sell, or distribute:
- Malichita or Rudy brand cantaloupe
- Any products made with Malichita or Rudy brand cantaloupe
- Any recalled produce

The U.S. CDC is also investigating an outbreak of Salmonella illnesses linked to cantaloupes that is the same genetic strain as illnesses reported in this outbreak.

In case you are experiencing Salmonella symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/public-health-notices/2023/outbreak-salmonella-infections-malichita-cantaloupes.html