The United States Food and Drug Administration is great about getting the truth out about certain items that may pollute the air or harm us in any manner. As of May 25, 2001, the FDA announced a possible outbreak of Salmonella poona, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. The contaminated fruit is believed to have came from two Mexican companies, S. P. R. De R. I. Legumbrere San Luis and S. P. R. De R. I. Los Arroyos. The bacteria has caused several illnesses and deaths in the following areas: Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington State, according to the FDA.
Persons infected with Salmonella poona will experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. The infection can also cause more serious symptoms by getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis.
This cantaloupe was sold in retail stores and restaurants and possibly in heath care facilities.
The FDA has taken steps to stop the any other cantaloupe from being imported.
Viva has been the only name brand associated with the illness. But, the FDA recommends that consumers beware of other produce to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
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