Nova Scotia E. coli cases climb to 10

Image/CDC

With the three additional confirmed cases of E.coli in the eastern Canadian province, Nova Scotia health authorities say the E. coli outbreak now stands at 10, according to a Nova Scotia government press release Jan. 7.

The three new cases are reported from Capital Health (2) and one case in Cumberland District Health Authority. Five cases have now been reported in Capital District Health, one each in Pictou, Cumberland, and Colchester East Hants health authorities, and two in Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority.

All the patients affected by the outbreak have recovered or are recovering according to health officials.

The source of the outbreak is still under investigation.

“Nova Scotians should not be alarmed. We know that the incubation period of E.coli 0157 is one to 10 days, so it is not uncommon to see additional cases arise, as more people who may exhibit symptoms get tested,” said Dr. Robert Strang, Chief Public Health Officer. “We are working with other departments and agencies to determine the source as we continue our investigation.”

Nova Scotia health officials are working closely with their peers in New Brunswick, which is dealing with an E. coli outbreak also, to determine if there are any links or common sources of contamination.

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