1997 Outbreak of Salmonella Saphra Infections Linked to Imported Mexican Cantaloupe, California

Twenty four persons were known to be infected with a genetically indistinguishable strain of Salmonella Saphra. A case control study implicated the consumption of cantaloupe as a risk for illness. A traceback identified one growing region in Mexico as a source of cantaloupe for 95% of the case-patients. Very few persons reported washing cantaloupe prior to cutting them.

Overview

Outbreak began:February 1997
Affected country:US
States/territories:CA
Pathogen:Salmonella Saphra
Vehicle(s):cantaloupe
Location(s):Retail
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:24
Number hospitalized:5

Sources & documents

Report / reference links
Outbreak documents