By Associated Press
Springfield, IL – Health officials say 17 food-poisoning cases in Illinois are linked to tainted papayas from Mexico. The Illinois Department of Public Health says eight of the 17 cases required hospitalization. The Illinois cases are part of a multistate outbreak causing more than 90 food poisoning cases in 23 states. A South Texas company says it's recalling papayas imported from Mexico because they could be contaminated with salmonella bacteria. The company says the Blondie, Yaya, Mananita and Tastylicious brand papayas sold prior to July 23 are being recalled. Officials advise people who've eaten papayas and become ill to seek medical care and contact the local health department.