Fruit was distributed in Kentucky and Southern Indiana

Story by: Maggie Roetker on June 13, 2018

Melon distributed to Costco, Gordon Food Service, Kroger, Trader Joe’s, Walgreens, Walmart and Whole Foods stores in Kentucky and Indiana has been recalled due to fears of salmonella contamination.

The fruit, including cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon, were sold in plastic clamshell packaging either on their own or as part of a fruit salad. It was distributed by Caito Foods, Gordon Food Service or SpartanNash and delivered to stores April 17 through June 7.

Salmonella thought to be linked to the melon has sickened 60 people in five states. However, no illness has been reported in Kentucky as of June 12.

Symptoms of salmonella can start to appear 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps

If you experience these symptoms, here’s what you should do:

• Get plenty of rest.
• Wash your hands and clean areas that may have become contaminated. The illness can be spread from person to person, and the bacteria can live on surfaces for a few hours.
• Stay home from work and school, and avoid social gatherings. The bacteria can spread if you or those around you don’t practice good hand hygiene.
• Drink lots of fluids, including water and sports drinks containing electrolytes and vitamins, to prevent dehydration.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that each year around 1 million people become sick from salmonella in food. Of these, 19,000 people are hospitalized and 380 die.

Most cases of salmonella last four to seven days and do not require medical treatment. However, you should watch for signs of dehydration, which can be a major concern and require immediate help.