An ongoing outbreak of salmonella infections linked to cantaloupe products has been spreading rapidly, with the number of cases reaching 302 in 42 US states, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of Friday, three deaths have been reported in Minnesota, while one death has occurred in Oregon.

Canada has also reported its share of the outbreak, with 153 confirmed cases in eight provinces, resulting in six deaths. The CDC and the Public Health Agency of Canada have noted that most of the illnesses have affected young children and adults over the age of 65.

However, it is important to highlight that the actual number of infected individuals may be significantly higher. The CDC believes that many individuals who fall ill with salmonella do not seek medical care, and therefore go untested.

The Malichita and Rudy brand whole cantaloupes have been included in the recall associated with the outbreak. Additionally, cut fruit products sold by various retailers nationwide, including Kwik Trip, Kroger, Trader Joe's, Sprouts, Aldi, and RaceTrac, have also been recalled.

The CDC has issued a warning to the public, advising against consuming pre-cut cantaloupes if it is unknown whether Malichita or Rudy brand cantaloupes were used in the preparation. This advisory extends to cantaloupe chunks and fruit mixes containing cantaloupes sold at restaurants and grocery stores.

Those who have purchased recalled fruit products are urged to dispose of them or return them to the store for a refund. It is also crucial to thoroughly wash any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with the fruit using hot, soapy water. Alternatively, using a dishwasher can help eliminate bacteria.

The CDC is appealing to businesses to refrain from selling the contaminated fruit and to properly wash and sanitize any items that may have come into contact with it.

Salmonella is a bacterium that can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. Typically, symptoms begin to manifest between six hours and six days after consuming the bacteria.

Individuals who suspect they have consumed contaminated fruit and experience a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, persistent diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, unending vomiting, or dehydration, should seek immediate medical attention.

While anyone can become infected with salmonella, certain groups are more vulnerable to severe symptoms, including the elderly, pregnant individuals, children, and those with underlying health conditions that weaken their immune system.

Salmonella infections are unfortunately common, causing approximately 1.35 million cases and 26,500 hospitalizations in the United States each year, as reported by the CDC.

Foodborne salmonella infections also come with a high financial burden. The US Department of Agriculture estimates that such infections cost the US economy $4.1 billion annually.

The CDC, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Public Health Agency of Canada continue to investigate the outbreak diligently, working to identify any additional cantaloupe or fruit products that may be contaminated.