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BY KERRY LEARY
You’re watching multisource health news analysis by Newsy.
Four people have died in a listeria outbreak linked to Colorado cantaloupe. CBS explains what listeria is -- and why cantaloupe is an unlikely place to find it.
“Well, we’re talking here about a bacteria that we normally find in association with deli meats, unpasteurized milk or cheese products, or even some refrigerated seafood. So it is unusual to be associated with fresh produce in this case.”
Along with the four deaths, thirty-five people have been sickened by the cantaloupe across ten states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is making sure everyone knows the symptoms of Listeria, which include:
“...fever and muscle aches, often preceded by … gastrointestinal symptoms … in addition... [symptoms] can include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.”
The outbreak has been traced back to Jensen Farms in Colorado -- and the farm has since recalled the cantaloupes. CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta advises cantaloupe eaters to be cautious.
“They gotta make sure, obviously, they’re washing their hands, washing the produce, but also taking the skin off this food as well -- where a lof of the bacteria can reside.”
The CDC is investigating at least two other deaths that could be linked to Listeria.
Transcript by Newsy.
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