The death toll is five in Canada and three in the United States. The health authorities in both countries link the hundreds of infections to cantaloupe melons from the Malichita and Rudy brands. The numbers are likely to increase because possible infections have yet to be confirmed.
Salmonella bacteria can occur in many different types of food, including animal products and fruit. It can take up to three days after eating contaminated food before someone becomes ill. But not everyone gets complaints. Those who do become ill may suffer from diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, fever and headache for up to a week.