Six Oklahomans Develop Listeriosis

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma State Department of Health has confirmed one person has died and five others were hospitalized in connection with bacteria-tainted cantaloupes shipped to Oklahoma this summer.

In a press release, the health department said another four cases of listeriosis are under investigation as well.

The department reported that the cantaloupes were shipped from Jensen Farms in Rocky Ford, Colorado.

Jensen Farms has voluntarily recalled Rocky Ford cantaloupes which were shipped between July 29th and September 10th. The recalled cantaloupes may have been shipped to 17 states.

All of the Oklahoma victims were over the age of 60, a group which the health department said is a high-risk group. Also at high risk are pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

The department's release said that people under 60 rarely develop listeriosis.