The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been investigating a series of multistate Salmonella outbreaks linked to Indiana-grown melons. The first outbreak occurred in 2012 and was linked to cantaloupes from a farm in southwest Indiana. Two more outbreaks occurred in 2020 and 2022, both of which were linked to cantaloupes from different Indiana farms.
The CDC believes that environmental and animal reservoirs are likely contributors to the outbreaks. Cantaloupes themselves are also susceptible to Salmonella contamination, with irrigation water being a likely source of contamination. The rough external rind of cantaloupes was also identified as a potential hiding place for Salmonella bacteria.
In the 2020 outbreak, 80 people across 15 states were affected, with 22% requiring hospitalization. The source of the outbreak was identified as cantaloupes from a single Indiana melon grower. In the 2022 outbreak, 87 people across 11 states were affected, with 44% requiring hospitalization. The source of the outbreak was identified as cantaloupes from a single Indiana supplier.
The Enhanced Salmonella Surveillance project played a crucial role in detecting the outbreaks early, allowing for rapid epidemiological and traceback investigations. As a result of these outbreaks, the CDC plans to continue the Enhanced Salmonella Surveillance project in 2023. The goal is to detect outbreaks as early as possible by interviewing patients using a standardized questionnaire and to identify and recall contaminated products sooner.
The CDC is actively monitoring Salmonella Typhimurium and Newport strains as reoccurring, emerging and persisting (REP) strains. Collaboration with the FDA, state partners and industry is also underway to explore prevention activities that can help prevent future cantaloupe-associated outbreaks.
Tips to Prevent Salmonella Infection
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
- Cook food to the proper temperature.
- Keep food safe at the proper temperature.
- Throw away any food that has been left out for more than two hours.
By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and your family safe from Salmonella infection.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables