Update, August 7, 1:10 p.m.
On Friday the CDC reported an additional 64 people had contracted salmonella from Maradol papayas, totalling 109, and the infection was found in six additional states: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Wisconsin. There have been 35 hospitalizations and one person has died in New York City. On July 26, the US Food and Drug Administration determined that the Maradol papayas came from Carica de Campeche farm in Mexico, which has since recalled the shipment it made to the US earlier in the month. An investigation is ongoing and the FDA is continuing to test papayas from Mexican.
Original story, July 24
In the summer, we’re all excited about eating more fruits and veggies, but watch out for one type in particular: Maradol papayas. The CDC reports that it’s likely eating the tropical fruit has caused salmonalla outbreaks in 12 states since July 21. 47 people have been infected with the virus and one person has died in New York City.
Salmonella is a bacterial infection of the intestinal tract most typically caused by exposure to contaminated food and water, particularly meats and eggs. According to the CDC, it can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. Symptoms usually strike within 12 to 72 hours after exposure and last four to seven days. While the majority of people recover on their own, sometimes folks require hospitalization to alleviate dehydration caused by diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection may spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and can lead to death if not properly treated with antibiotics. Of an estimated 1.2 million cases a year, around 450 are fatal, according to the CDC. The elderly, young and those with compromised immunity are the most susceptible to complications from salmonella.
The 12 states where infection has been reported are Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Maryland.
According to the CDC report, the ages of the infected ranged from infants through 95 year old, with a median age of 27. In Maryland, where there were a large number of cases, folks with salmonella reportedly bought Maradol papayas at their local grocery store.
The CDC recommends that folks abstain from eating Maradol papayas at this time. To avoid contracting salmonella, avoid eating raw or undercooked foods, such as meats or eggs, and be sure to keep them properly refrigerated. Wash your hands and countertops thoroughly before and after handling food.
