Two New Mexicans sickened by Salmonella after eating cantaloupe

SANTA FE, New Mexico (KVIA) -- Two New Mexicans have recovered from a Salmonella infection after eating cantaloupes, a spokesperson with the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) announced Thursday. One of the patients live in Dona Ana County.

The FDA urges all consumers to avoid eating Malichita and Rudy brand whole cantaloupes with the sticker number "4050." Nationally, 230 people in 38 states have fallen ill. 96 were hospitalized as a result of their illness and three died. NMDOH says a number of people were sickened at long-term care facilities, while a number of other patients became infected at childcare centers. The department did not explain where the two New Mexico patients picked up the bacteria.

“Since New Mexico has two people infected with the ongoing nationwide cantaloupe-related Salmonella bacteria outbreak, NMDOH urges the public to check all cantaloupe in your possession, both whole and pre-cut, to make sure your fruit is not among those recalled. If you aren’t sure, throw your cantaloupe away,” Deputy State Epidemiologist Chad Smelser said.

The department advises everyone to wash hands and avoid cross-contamination between foods to prevent Salmonella contraction.

Symptoms of infection include diarrhea, a high fever, vomiting, and dehydration.