HEALTH WARNING: Contaminated Rockmelon Linked To Listeria Outbreak

10 cases reported already


Article heading image for HEALTH WARNING: Contaminated Rockmelon Linked To Listeria Outbreak

An alert has been issued following reports of contaminated rockmelon in circulation across the country.

According to 7 News, a rockmelon grower based in NSW who ceased production last Friday has been linked to ten cases of listeria.

People at risk are the elderly, pregnant or those with a weak immune system, according to health authorities.

All states and territories are reportedly working to investigate the listeria outbreak.

Ten cases have emerged so far in elderly patients, including:

  • Queensland (3),
  • NSW (6), and 
  • Victoria (1).

All of these cases had consumed rockmelon prior to contracting the illness.

Listeria is a rare but severe illness caused by bacteria.

It is not normally transmitted between people, but can pass from a mother to her unborn baby.

Symptoms include:

  • fever and chills,
  • headache,
  • stiff neck,
  • sensitivity to light,
  • confusion,
  • drowsiness,
  • nausea,
  • muscle aches and pains,
  • diarrhoea.

28 February 2018




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