Six people across Canada have been hospitalized due to a salmonella outbreak linked to Malichita cantaloupes.
In a recent public health notice issued by the Public Health Agency of Canada, an outbreak of salmonella has been attributed to the consumption of cantaloupes from the Malichita brand.
The outbreak has affected individuals across five provinces, prompting health authorities to issue a recall and advisory for consumers.
There was an initial recall of cantaloupes from the Malichita brand earlier this month.
Subsequently, further recalls were extended to products manufactured using these cantaloupes, as well as other produce items processed alongside them.
The impact of this outbreak has been significant, with 26 confirmed cases reported as of November 22nd.
These cases span across British Columbia (7), Ontario (7), Quebec(8), Prince Edward Island (2), and Newfoundland and Labrador (2). The majority of cases (54%) are female.
Among those affected, six individuals have been hospitalized, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
The timeline of illnesses linked to this outbreak ranges from mid-October to early November. While no fatalities have been reported, the affected individuals exhibited symptoms consistent with salmonella infection, such as fever, chills, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.
The investigation strongly indicates that the consumption of Malichita cantaloupes is the probable source of this outbreak. Several affected individuals had reported consuming cantaloupes before falling ill.
Health authorities have cautioned that additional cases might surface as there is typically a delay between illness onset and reporting to public health officials, which could range from two to four weeks.
In response to this situation, the CFIA is actively pursuing its food safety investigation, leaving open the possibility of further product recalls.
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant, especially if they possess any Malichita-brand cantaloupes or related recalled products.
