A salmonella outbreak originating from Mexican cantaloupes has rapidly escalated in Canada, paralleling the U.S. outbreak in patient count and fatalities. Two deaths have been reported in the United States, with one fatality in Canada.
Imported cantaloupes are identified as the common source of contamination. Canada’s confirmed cases have surged to 63 as of November 24th, a stark increase from the 26 reported on November 22nd. Seventeen patients required hospitalization. Affected individuals span from less than 1 to 100 years old, with cases reported in six provinces.
Health officials anticipate more identifications as test results are relayed to federal authorities, a process taking four weeks or more. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has expanded recall warnings to include Rudy brand cantaloupes, triggering secondary recalls for related product
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
