Food Standards Australia Fears Possible Salmonella Outbreak In Rockmelons

Pregnant women, infants and the elderly are being advised not to eat rockmelon, also known as cantaloupe, amid fears of a possible salmonella outbreak.

Food Standards Australia said state and territory authorities, including the Department of Health, are investigating cases of salmonella following an increase in infections possibly associated with the fruit.

In a statement on Tuesday, the FSA said:

“While we wait for further information, the best advice is that consumers, especially infants, the elderly, pregnant women or people with compromised immune systems, should not consume rockmelon.

“FSANZ will continue to work with the state and territory enforcement agencies and the Federal Department of Health and update its advice to consumers.”

Salmonellosis is a form of gastroenteritis, which occurs when salmonella bacteria are ingested. Symptoms include diarrhoea, fever, headache, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. It usually occurs between six and 72 hours after consuming the bacteria, with infants and the elderly especially prone.

Read our article on Salmonella for more information.

If you become concerned about any symptoms please seek immediate medical attention we have some hotlines and suggested websites for further information and advice  https://www.stayathomemum.com.au/my-kids/babies/important-hotlines-websites/

Source: Dailymail.co.uk and Heraldsun.com.au