The Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health and Education is advising TC Islanders to be careful in their purchase and consumption of beef and beef products imported from North America, specifically Canada following reports of illnesses due to E. coli O157
Several cases of E. coli O157 have been diagnosed in Canada and have been linked to consumption of beef products from XL Foods Inc, a facility that ships beef and beef products to several countries including the USA.
Public Health Agency of Canada has reportedly been working with its health and food safety partners on an investigation into E. coliO157 illnesses that have been linked to the food safety investigation at XL Foods Inc.
The Public Health Department is advising that products contaminated with E. coli O157 can pose a serious public health risk and cause severe illness. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Serious complications of an E. coli O157:H7 infection can include kidney failure.
The Public Heath Department is advising anyone who think that they might be sick with an E. coli O157:H7 infection, to a healthcare professional. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk.
The department is reminding residents that proper hygiene, safe food handling and food preparation practices can prevent or minimise the spread of food borne illnesses, including E. coli. Hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of food borne illness. Thorough cooking will destroy bacteria.
The Ministry would like to remind all, that recalled products, should NEVER be consumed and MUST be thrown away.
