Federal health officials say at least 13 people are dead, including two in Texas, and 72 or more are sick due to the recent listeria outbreak - the United States' largest since 1998.

The outbreak has been linked to cantaloupes grown at Jensen Farms in Colorado.  The fruit was voluntarily recalled in mid September, but for many Americans, it was too late.

Listeria is especially deadly for the elderly and vulnerable.  This doesn't mean others shouldn't be worried.  Although the average age of the deceased is 78-years-old, it has claimed the life of someone as young as 35-years-old.

People are encouraged to exercise extreme caution as listeria can take several weeks to develop.  Our recommendation is to avoid any food product containing cantaloupe of any kind as some of the whole fruit was sent to Carol Cuts, LLC in Kansas to be used in fruit medleys and other products.  When it doubt, it is always smarter and safer to just throw it out.

If you have been made sick or have lost a loved one due to contaminated or dangerous food, you may want to contact a recalled food attorney to discuss your legal options.