HEALTH WARNING: Contaminated Rockmelon Linked To Listeria Outbreak
10 cases reported already
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), andÂ
- 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.