Salmonella has been in the news a lot lately, and that doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a fruit mix containing cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, and grapes from Tailor Cut Produce of New Jersey was recalled back in early December, and now it has been discovered that the company's Fruit Luau fruit mix may be a “potential source of an outbreak of salmonella illness in multiple states.”

FDA Building 21 stands behind the sign at the campus's main entrance and houses the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research; image by FDA, Public domain.

The recall was issued back on December 7, 2019, for certain products distributed between November 15 and December 1, 2019. According to a news release issued yesterday, the FDA said that “at least 96 people had been sickened by Salmonella Javiana, and at least 27 of them were hospitalized.” So far, all of the reported illnesses stem from states where the fruit mixes were distributed, including Pennsylvania, New York City, New Jersey, and Delaware. Other confirmed cases of the illness have been reported in California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, Virginia and Washington by people who had traveled to the “four states where the fruit mix was distributed.”The FDA news release further stated:"The recalled products may have been distributed to nursing homes, schools, hospitals, and other facilities that cater to vulnerable populations, it is important that these facilities do not sell or serve them. Please consult with your distributor to confirm the source of the fruit mix and cut fruit used in your operation."Salmonella can cause a serious gastrointestinal illness in those it infects. Common symptoms include everything from fever and diarrhea to abdominal cramps, headaches, lethargy, and body aches. In severe cases, the illness may prove fatal, especially in young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. If you think you consumed the potentially contaminated fruit and are worried you may be experiencing symptoms of salmonella illness, contact your healthcare provider.

Sources:

Nearly 100 people sickened by salmonella linked to fruit mix recall, FDA saysNJ Among States Most Affected By Salmonella Scare At Schools, Hospitals, Hotels