Cantaloupe recall: What to know if you have the contaminated fruit
43 people were infected with salmonella in 15 states, according to federal health officials
Two people have died and at least 45 others have been hospitalized from the widespread salmonella outbreak tied to cantaloupe.
Federal health officials are urging consumers who purchased the recalled cantaloupe to wash any surfaces it may have touched while the outbreak investigation continues.
To date, at least 99 people have fallen ill in 32 states although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned that the "true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported."
Several brands have already issued recalls for whole cantaloupes as well as fresh cut cantaloupe cubes, cantaloupe chunks, melon medleys and fruit medleys.
The agency, currently investigating the outbreak, told consumers to either throw out or return the recalled product. Consumers also need to wash surfaces using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
The recall was issued after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency warned the company that the fruit was potentially contaminated with bacteria, according to a notice from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
SALMONELLA-INFECTED CANTALOUPES LEAVE DOZENS SICK IN 15 STATES: HEALTH OFFICIALS
Healthy individuals who become infected with salmonella can have symptoms such as diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps, and these symptoms usually last from six hours to six days after consuming the bacteria.
Pieces of sliced cantaloupe are seen on a table. (iStock / iStock)
However, salmonella can cause serious and even fatal infections in young children, elderly individuals and those with weakened immune systems.
The agency also listed symptoms that consumers need to watch out for if they have eaten the affected fruit.
GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE
Consumers need to call a doctor if they are experiencing:
- Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102 degrees
- Diarrhea for more than three days that is not improving
- Bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting/cannot keep liquids down
- Signs of dehydration, dry mouth and throat, feeling dizzy when standing up