I copied this directly from the CDC's site. Where was the media on this one?
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Persons infected with the outbreak-associated strains of Listeria monocytogenes, by state* |
Today's Highlights, October 18, 2011
- As of 9am EDT on October 17, 2011, a total of 123 persons infected with any of the four outbreak-associated strains of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported to CDC from 26 states. Pennsylvania has reported their first case since the last CDC update.
- Twenty-five deaths have been reported. In addition, one woman pregnant at the time of illness had a miscarriage.
- Go to October 18, 2011 for a full report.
- CDC recommends that consumers not eat whole or pre-cut Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupe from Jensen Farms. This is especially important for older adults, persons with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.
- Even if some of the cantaloupe has been eaten without becoming ill, dispose of the rest of the cantaloupe immediately. Listeria bacteria can grow in the cantaloupe at room and refrigerator temperatures.
- Cantaloupes that are known to NOT have come from Jensen Farms are safe to eat. If consumers are uncertain about the source of a cantaloupe for purchase, they should ask the grocery store. A cantaloupe purchased from an unknown source should be discarded: "when in doubt, throw it out."
- An early release of the MMWR on September 30, 2011 highlighted this outbreak. Go to Multistate Outbreak of Listeriosis Associated with Jensen Farms Cantaloupe — United States, August–September 2011 for a full report.
- More information about listeriosis and recommendations to reduce the risk of getting listeriosis from food are available at CDC’s Listeriosis webpage.
- For more information on food outbreaks, please visit CDC’s Multistate Foodborne Outbreaks page.
