Michigan Salmonella Outbreaks May Be Linked to Cantaloupe - Northern Michigan's News Leader

Michigan Salmonella Outbreaks May Be Linked to Cantaloupe

Local health departments are investigating a Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak in Michigan as well as 19 other states.

Since July 7th, 6 cases in Michigan have been reported, 3 children and 3 adults.

Nationwide, including Michigan, about 141 cases were investigated. Most of the people reporting such illness say they have been eating cantaloupes. The investigation has shown that cantaloupe grown in southwestern Indiana is likely the main source of the outbreak.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration food safety tips for fresh produce:

- Rinse raw produce, such as fruits and vegetables, thoroughly under running tap water before eating, cutting, or cooking. Even if the produce will be peeled, it should still be washed first; 
- Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush;
- Dry produce with a clean cloth or paper towel;
- Purchase produce that is not bruised or damaged;
- When selecting pre-cut produce — such as half a watermelon or bagged salad greens — choose only those items that are refrigerated or surrounded by ice;
- Bag fresh fruits and vegetables separately from meat, poultry, and seafood products when packing them to take home from the market; and,
- Check that your refrigerator is clean and set at 40° F or below.

For more information about the outbreak, visit the CDC's website at http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/typhimurium-cantaloupe-08-12/index.html.