Canadian health officials investigate fourteen cases of E. coli O157:H7 linked to Gort’s Gouda Cheese
In a follow up to a report from last week, The Public Health Agency of Canada, along with its health and food safety partners, is investigating fourteen cases of E. coli O157:H7 illness; four in British Columbia, eight in Alberta, one in Saskatchewan and one in Quebec.
These individuals became ill between mid-July and early September. Most people who become ill from E.coli bacteria will recover within 5 to 10 days.
One of the cases in British Columbia has died as a result of E. coli O157:H7 infection. All other cases have recovered or are recovering.
Certain contaminated cheese products manufactured by Gort’s Gouda Cheese Farm in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, have been identified as the source of the illnesses. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has recalled these products from the marketplace.
Health authorities say, “there is currently no indication of widespread risk to Canadians. However, E. coli O157:H7 can pose a serious public health risk. Additional cases of illness may be identified and linked to this outbreak in the future.”
They also advise that the public not eat any of the recalled product. Check your refrigerator and if you have any of the recalled product in your home, return it to the point of purchase or throw it out.
Province / Territory | Total cases |
---|---|
British Columbia | 4 |
Alberta | 8 |
Saskatchewan | 1 |
Quebec | 1 |
Total | 14 |
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