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October 5, 2017 – Ensure Proper Food Handling to Prevent Illness

Peterborough Public Health would like you to enjoy a safe and healthy Thanksgiving holiday.

One way to ensure this is through safe food handling methods.  In general, thturkeye most popular choice for a Thanksgiving dinner is turkey.  “Poultry can contain harmful bacteria such as salmonella,” said Atul Jain, Manager of Environmental Health Programs.  “If not handled with care or cooked inadequately these bacteria can cause illness, but by following safe food handling guidelines, you can help ensure that you, your family, and your guests remain healthy.”

When shopping for poultry, check the temperature of the refrigerator in the grocery store to ensure that the product you are buying has been stored at the proper temperature.  All refrigeration units are required to have a working thermometer inside them.  The proper refrigeration temperature is 4°C (40°F) or colder and freezers should be maintained below -18°C (0°F).  Avoid buying damaged packages, frost covered packages, dry or discolored food, or packages that feel too warm.

Your home refrigerator should also be kept at these temperatures.  Monitor the temperature of your fridge or freezer using an appliance thermometer, available at most hardware or restaurant supply stores.

When you get home from the store, place your turkey in a pan or container which will keep meat juices from dripping or spilling.  Store your turkey on the lowest shelf of the fridge to prevent bacteria from contaminating other foods or surfaces.

The safest way to thaw poultry is in the refrigerator or under cold running water (allow one hour per pound).  In the case of a large turkey, allow several days in the fridge to thaw – five hours per pound is a good rule of thumb.

Prepare raw poultry on non-porous surfaces which are easier to clean and sanitize.  Thoroughly wash and sanitize any utensils, cutting boards or counter surfaces that raw meat touches.  Sanitize by using asolution of 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of household bleach with 1 litre (4 cups) of water.

Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling any food and after handling raw meats.

It takes thorough cooking to kill harmful bacteria and prevent food poisoning.  Cook the poultry to an internal temperature of 82°C (180°F).  Use a probe thermometer and check the temperature of the thickest part, usually the thigh or breast away from the bone.  A turkey will reach a safe internal cooking temperature faster if it is not stuffed.

Cook the stuffing in a separate dish, ensuring that the stuffing also reaches a temperature of 74°C (165°F).  If the turkey is to be stuffed, it should be done just prior to cooking, not the night before.

Refrigerate leftovers within two hours.  Carve the meat off of the bones before storing cooked poultry.  Refrigerate or freeze meat and stuffing separately and in small quantities so that they will cool quickly.

Reheat meat and stuffing rapidly to at least 74°C (165°F) and serve. Do not reheat leftovers more than once.

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

August 18, 2017 – Residents Reminded to Take Precautions

Today Peterborough Public Health officials confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) acquired locally.

“With confirmation of our first human case of the season, we encourage residents to take precautions to prevent the spread of West Nile virus in our area,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health.  “The wet summer is giving mosquitoes more places to breed, so we urge residents to keep their properties clean of standing water and brush and protect themselves from mosquito bites.”

As of August 12, 2017, Public Health Ontario (PHO) indicated there have been eight reported (confirmed or probable) human WNV cases in the province, including both locally-acquired and travel-related cases. PHO’s surveillance reports also state that so far in 2017 there have been 172 WNV positive mosquito pools, from 24 different health units across Ontario. This includes one positive pool found in the City of Peterborough in July.

Dr. Salvaterra noted that the majority of WNV cases do not show symptoms. About 20% of infected people will experience mild illness with such symptoms as fever, headache, and body aches, occasionally with a skin rash and swollen lymph nodes that last several days. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or eye pain. Symptoms usually develop 2 to 14 days after receiving a bite from an infected mosquito. Less than 1% of infected people will develop neurological symptoms.

Although the risk of becoming infected is low, prevention against bites is the best protection.  Individuals can protect themselves from bites in several ways:

  • Cover up when going outside between the hours of dusk and dawn. Remember to wear:
    • a long-sleeved shirt or jacket and long pants (tucked into your socks for extra protection)
    • light-coloured clothing
  • Clean up:
    • once a week, get rid of standing water around your home in places such as bird baths, eaves troughs, wheelbarrows and flower pots etc. (mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, even small amounts)
    • keep bushes and shrubs clear of overgrowth and debris (adult mosquitoes like to rest in dense shrubbery)
    • turn your compost pile often
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET. (DEET is a powerful chemical. Read the label carefully and apply as directed.  You can also ask your pharmacist for help when choosing a DEET product.)

For additional information on protection measures against West Nile virus such as reducing mosquito breeding sites and the safe use of insect repellents, please visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

June 12, 2017 – Today Peterborough Public Health is issuing the first Heat Warning of the season.  Temperatures are expected to reach near 31 degrees Monday with an overnight low near 20 degrees Monday night.  This current heatwave has been spreading across southern Ontario for more than two days and is expected to affect the Peterborough area today only.  Temperatures are expected to fall below heat alert criteria on Tuesday.

Heat Warning 2 DaysPeople suffer heat-related illnesses when their body temperature quickly rises and they are unable to cool themselves. The risk of heat-related illness increases with the amount of time spent in the heat, the temperature and an individual’s sensitivity to heat. If you feel faint, find it hard to breathe, or feel confused and disoriented because of the heat, call your doctor. In an emergency, call 911.

Please remember to call or visit family, friends and neighbours, especially seniors who live on their own, to make sure they are alright.

Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. This decreases your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.

Peterborough Public Health issues warnings for high heat or humidity that is expected to last two or more days.  Peterborough Public Health follows a provincial Harmonized Heat Warning and Information System for dealing with heat events affecting Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations, and the City and County of Peterborough.

Peterborough Public Health staff will monitor this system to determine when the Medical Officer of Health should declare a heat warning or extended heat warning.  This coordinated provincial system provides a consistent approach for processing and issuing heat warnings in Ontario.  It also provides evidence-based heat warning triggers which are founded on the association between temperature, humidex and mortality.

Extreme heat events are a potentially significant health risk and can have a severe impact on the health of vulnerable populations including infants, the elderly, shut-ins, persons with chronic diseases, the morbidly obese and the marginally housed.  Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are preventable.

Extreme heat is often accompanied by poor air quality.  Peterborough Public Health encourages you to monitor the Air Quality Health Index found as a link on the Ministry of the Environment & Climate Change’s website www.airqualityontario.com and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

 

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For further information, please contact:

Wanda Tonus
Public Health Inspector
705-743-1000, ext. 285

May 30, 2017 -Peterborough Public Health Activates Heat Warning System

With summer quickly approaching and warmer temperatures imminent, Peterborough Public Health has activated its Heat Warning and Information System (HWIS) to advise residents of the best way to protect their health when temperatures soar.

Environment and Climate Change Canada will issue Heat Warnings 18 to 24 hours in advance of the heat event. Forecasters will assess if two or more consecutive days of weather that meet either the humidex or temperature criteria (daytime highs or nighttime lows) are expected in the region. If so, a Heat Warning will be issued.  Information about these warning levels is available on the Extreme Weather – Heat webpage on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca and outlined below.

The Ontario Heat Warning Protocol includes two warning levels:

Level 1: Heat Warning

Heat Warning 2 DaysA  Heat Warning is issued when two consecutive days are forecasted to have a daytime high temperature greater than or equal to 31C AND a nighttime temperature greater than or equal to 20C or a humidex greater than 40.  This level of reminds residents of the following core messages: to keep their home cool, stay out of the heat, keep the body cool and hydrated, assist others, and recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion.

 

Level 2: Extended Heat Warning

An Extended Heat Warning will be issued for a heat event lasting three or more days.  This level of warning reminds residents of the core messages above, in addition to providing details on how and where to stay cool, advising suspension of strenuous outdoor activitieExtended Heat Warning 3+ Dayss, reminders to assist vulnerable groups, and to watch for further information through the media and the Public Health website.

 

Extreme heat events are a potentially significant health risk and can have a severe impact on the health of vulnerable populations including infants, the elderly, shut-ins, persons with chronic diseases, the morbidly obese and the marginally housed.  Heat related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are preventable.  Most healthy people can tolerate a short period of hot and humid weather as long as they stay cool and drink plenty of fluids. It is important to be aware that some medications may increase the health risks from extreme heat events.

 

Peterborough Public Health encourages all stakeholders to advise vulnerable clients of the heat advisory system and precautions they can take to prevent and manage heat related illness.

 

How to Protect Yourself During Hot Weather:

 

  • Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices even if you don’t feel very thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola.
  • Avoid going out in the direct sun or heat when possible. If you must go outside, stay in the shade as much as possible and plan to go out early in the morning or evening when it is cooler.
  • Go to air conditioned or cool places such as shopping malls, libraries, community centres or a friend’s place.
  • If you don’t have air conditioning, keep shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home, but keep windows slightly open.
  • Wear loose fitting, light clothing and a wide brimmed hat.
  • Keep lights off or turned down low.
  • Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels.
  • Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
  • Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.
  • If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.

 

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

  • heavy sweating
  • muscle cramps
  • weakness
  • headache
  • fainting
  • paleness, tiredness
  • dizziness, nausea

 

During heat warnings The City of Peterborough will be opening up extended hours, from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the One Roof Community Centre, located at 99 Brock Street.  Air conditioned public facilities are also available to city and county residents seeking a place to cool off, such as shopping malls, community centres, arenas and libraries.  Residents are advised to phone the cooling centres in advance to determine hours of operation.

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For further information, please contact:

Wanda Tonus

Public Health Inspector

705-743-1000 ext. 285

 

 

January 5, 2017 – New Drop Off Service at 185 King St. Starts January 16, 2017

Starting January 16, residents can drop off their private well water samples at Peterborough Public Health offices located at 185 King St. and these will be sent to the local Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing.

“We are pleased to make it easier for residents in Peterborough county or city to get their well water samples tested by dropping them off at the same location where they pick up the sample bottles,” said Atul Jain, Manager of Environmental Health Programs.  “Water quality changes over time, that’s why we recommend testing private wells three to four times a year to prevent health risks. We hope by making this testing service more accessible that residents will test their well water more regularly.”

Jain explained how Peterborough Public Health has set up a new courier service between its downtown location at 185 King St. and the Public Health Ontario Laboratory located at 99 Hospital Drive.  Free sample bottles are available on the third floor by the main counter at 185 King St. as well, so now residents can pick up a bottle and return it to the same location.  Residents can continue to deliver their water samples directly to the Hospital Drive lab itself between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and the water sample drop off at the Havelock Belmont Methuen location remains active as well.

Water samples can be dropped up between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Fridays.  This service is available to all residents and cottagers at no charge in Peterborough County and City.

Residents will receive their water quality results through mail or by calling Public Health Ontario’s Interactive Voice Response at 1-877-723-3426 (TTY: 1-866-828-2238). Residents with questions about their water quality results can call the Peterborough Public Health’s Safe Water Program at 705-743-1000, ext. 232 for free consultation.

The well water sample is tested for the bacterial contaminations total coliforms and E. coli.  The presence of E. coli indicates the water has been contaminated with fecal material which can contain disease-causing microbes.  These organisms can cause severe gastrointestinal illness.  Anyone can become ill if they consume contaminated water, but the young, elderly and immunocompromised are at a higher risk. To find out how to test for other contaminants, please contact the Peterborough Public Health at 705-743-1000, ext. 232 or visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca, click on “My Home & Environment”, then “My Home”, then “Water”.

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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

December 20, 2016 –  Peterborough Public Health Activates Extreme Cold Response Plan

Screen Shot 12-20-16 at 11.13 AMWith the colder winter months ahead, Peterborough Public Health has activated its Extreme Cold Response Plan (ECRP) to advise residents on the best way to protect their health when temperatures plummet.

“Cold weather injuries, such as frostbite and hypothermia, are preventable,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “Most healthy people can tolerate a short period of cold weather if dry and properly dressed. Our plan is designed to advise those who are the most vulnerable, suffer from cardiovascular disease and are at the highest risk of cold weather injuries how to protect themselves.”

Dr. Salvaterra noted that vulnerable populations in our communities include the elderly, infants (under one year), people with a history of cardiovascular disease such as heart attacks and strokes and mental disabilities, and people who are homeless or marginally housed.

Cold weather, combined with wind, can cause serious injuries or even death. Peterborough Public Health monitors the forecasted weather conditions from December 1 to April 1.  The ECRP defines a series of cold weather thresholds that trigger the Peterborough Public Health to notify the general public, healthcare providers and community service providers of appropriate measures they can take to reduce the risk of cold weather injuries for themselves and the vulnerable populations they serve.  City Social Services have recently aligned their Extreme Weather Protocol to take effect when Peterborough Public Health issues frostbite or heat alerts.  This will lead to improved communications and coordination of health protection measures when extreme weather warnings are issued.

Notifications of extreme cold will be posted on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca and issued to the media and stakeholder groups when the forecasted temperature or wind chill may result in an increased risk of frostbite. City Social Services will also share information regarding the locations and times of emergency shelters and any relevant outreach programs, as well as reminders about visiting public locations such as malls to get out of the cold.  Starting in December 2016, the meal/community drop in program has been contracted to provide extended hours of service from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to allow vulnerable populations a comfortable location until the Warming Room opens.

County residents are encouraged to consult their township for measures related to their local extreme cold response. Most townships and Curve Lake First Nation post extreme weather alerts on their websites and encourage residents to check in on neighbours.

Peterborough Public Health’s ECRP has three levels of notification:

  1. Frostbite Alert
  2. Frostbite Warning
  3. Cold Weather Emergency

Follow up messages and actions taken by Peterborough Public Health depend on the level of notification, as described below:

Level 1: Frostbite Alert

A Level 1 Frostbite Alert is issued when meteorologists forecast a temperature of -27?C to -38?C or a wind chill of -27 to -38. This level of notification reminds residents to: cover unprotected skin; avoid prolonged outdoor exposure; drink warm fluids; watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia; check on neighbours; and maintain a warm indoor environment (ideally 20?C or warmer).

Level 2: Frostbite Warning

A Level 2 Frostbite Warning is issued when meteorologists forecast a temperature between

-39?C and -47?C or a wind chill of -39 to -47. This level of notification reminds residents of the core messages above in addition to: reminding children and the elderly to stay indoors; advising the general public to reduce time spent outdoors; and advising the public to check their faces and extremities frequently for signs of frostbite.

 

Level 3: Cold Weather Emergency

A Level 3 Cold Weather Emergency is issued when meteorologists forecast a temperature of

-48?C or colder or a wind chill of -48 or colder OR when the temperature is below -27?C or a wind chill below -27 accompanied by a contributing risk factor such as a power outage, or critical infrastructure failure. This level of notification reminds residents of all the core messages above in addition to: requesting that residents stay indoors; ensuring vulnerable individuals are in a warm, safe environment; and advising the public to check their faces and extremities frequently for signs of frostbite. Further information about the Health Unit’s ECRP is available on  www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca under the section for “My Environment”.

Peterborough Public Health recognizes that other community organizations may have developed their own internal policies and procedures for dealing with extreme cold for the population they are serving (i.e. school boards, and day care providers). Community agencies and partners that would like direct notification from us in the event of an extreme cold alert should contact the Communications Manager at 705-743-1000, ext. 391.

 

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For further information, please contact:
Wanda Tonus
Public Health Inspector
705-743-1000, ext. 285

 

 

November 18, 2016 – Peterborough Public Health Releases 2015 Annual Report Video

Peterborough Public Health released its 2015 Annual Report video today to celebrate the many public health accomplishments made that year.HT-161116-Annual-Report-Video

“2015 was a year of major milestones and we are pleased to share these along with how we empower others to live healthier lives in this new video,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “In addition to our daily work in the community, this video captures the exciting transition to our new home at 185 King St. and how our new location is quickly becoming a community hub where people come together to improve the quality of life for all.”

Dr. Salvaterra noted that last year when Peterborough Public Health released its annual report in video format for the first time, it received more than 650 views. “We learned how using video was a far more effective way to reach residents to report on our progress and it also better showcases the many contributions our staff make every day to the public health of our community.”

The video is available on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca where viewers can also find the 2015 audited financial statements. Community groups and local agencies are encouraged to request a presentation by Peterborough Public Health staff to share the video and discuss current strategies to advance public health in Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations, and in the County and City of Peterborough.

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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

June 21, 2016 – Know the Risks and How to Protect Yourself

Screen Shot 06-21-16 at 08.37 AMPeterborough Public Health is advising local residents to report and protect themselves from blue-green algae which may bloom on area lakes.

Peterborough Public Health (PPH), with the assistance of the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, will follow up on blue-green algae blooms reported in lakes in Peterborough County and City area, and around Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations. To date, no reports have been received of the presence or confirmation of blue-green algae this season.

“Residents should visit our website or call us for information about what to look for before swimming or consuming water if they suspect a bloom in their area,” said Atul Jain, Manager of Environmental Health Programs at PPH. “Just as we have all learned how to avoid poison ivy and sunburns, it’s important to know how to protect ourselves from blue-green algae so everyone can still safely enjoy the outdoors.”

Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria, called cyanobacteria that are known for rapidly reproducing and collecting to form large, highly visible blooms throughout the water column, on the surface of water as a scum, or on the lake bottom as a mat.  These blooms are not only unsightly and smelly: some species of cyanobacteria can also release poisons, called cyanobacterial toxins, when the cells that make up the bloom rupture or die. To report a blue-green algae bloom, residents are advised to contact the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change at 1-800-268-6060.

The risk to humans is primarily from drinking water that has been contaminated with toxins from a dense algae bloom.  Fortunately, there have been no human deaths attributed to drinking water containing cyanobacterial toxins, but the toxins may cause headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or diarrhea. Long-term consumption of water containing high levels of cyanobacterial toxins may cause neurological or liver problems.  If allowed, farm animals and pets may consume large quantities of heavily contaminated water, resulting in sickness or death.

Some individuals are sensitive to blue-green algae, and may develop a mild skin rash or eye irritation even if there is no toxin produced by the bloom.  Some individuals will have no reaction.

For more information on blue-green algae, and precautions to be taken before swimming in or consuming water where there has been an algae bloom, go to www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca and click on “My Home & Environment” to visit the webpage dedicated to blue-green algae.

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

 

 

June 8, 2016 – Residents Reminded to Avoid Contact with Animals That Can Carry Rabies

Peterborough Public Health is confirming that a local bat found last week within the City of Peterborough has tested positive for rabies, and is reminding residents to steer clear of wild animals commonly known to carry the disease.

“This positive animal case confirms what we already know – that rabies is present in our area,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health.  “This serves as a good reminder for residents to take precautions, such as getting your pets vaccinated, and avoiding contact with bats and other animals known to carry rabies.”

In Canada, the most common rabies carriers are raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats.  Rabid animals may be extremely excited, attack objects or other animals, froth at the mouth, and bite at anything.  There were 13 rabid bats in Ontario in 2015 and zero in Peterborough.

To prevent rabies, always wear gloves and other protective clothing when dealing with a bat.  Warn children to stay away from bats and to report any contact with them.  If you or a pet comes in direct contact with a bat, you should contact your doctor or veterinarian. For tips on preventing conflicts with bats, visit www.ontario.ca/page/prevent-conflicts-bats.

While it’s rare, when humans develop rabies from infected animals it is almost 100% fatal. Rabies is a deadly disease of the central nervous system that affects humans and other mammals. The virus is concentrated in the saliva of a rabid animal and can spread through a bite, cut or scratch, or if the saliva comes in contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes. There is no known treatment for rabies once the symptoms appear.  The disease cannot be treated, but it can be prevented through vaccination.

To protect your family and your pets from rabies:

  • Keep pets up-to-date with their rabies vaccination. In Ontario, it’s the law that all cats and dogs over three months of age must be vaccinated against rabies
  • Teach children to stay away from wild animals, dogs and cats they don’t know or animals that are acting strangely
  • Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating your livestock against rabies
  • Stay away from any wildlife, dog or cat that you don’t know or any animal that is acting strangely. A strange acting animal could be a sign that it is sick or injured.
  • Keep pets away from wildlife. Don’t let your pets run free in the neighbourhood and keep them indoors at night
  • Don’t feed, transport or relocate wildlife.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the area thoroughly with soapy water, seek medical advice immediately, and then contact Peterborough Public Health Unit at 705-743-1000, ext. 232.

If your pets or livestock have had contact with a wild animal, such as a bat, skunk, fox or raccoon, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Veterinarians seeking assistance with risk assessments or post-exposure management can call the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs at 1-877-424-1300.

If an animal is acting strange or sick, and neither a human nor pet/livestock have been exposed, contact your municipal animal control department or OSPCA. For non-emergencies and information about rabies in wildlife, call the MNRF rabies hotline at 1-888-574-6656.

 

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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

 

 

January 26, 2016 – Residents Advised to Throw Out Certain Brands of Pre-packaged Salads

The Peterborough Public Health has been asked by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to contact local institutions that serve vulnerable populations (e.g. hospitals, long-term care homes, retirement homes, child care centres) to check for recalled products that could potentially be contaminated with Listeria.

“If the recalled products are found, operators will be instructed to discard them and contact their supplier or return to the location where it was purchased,” explained Atul Jain, Manager of Inspection Services.  “We are also advising local residents to check for certain Dole brand pre-packaged salad and leafy greens and PC Organics brand leafy greens and throw them out to protect themselves and their families from possible Listeria infection.”

The Public Health Agency of Canada is collaborating with federal and provincial public health partners to investigate an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections in five provinces. To date, the source of this outbreak has not been confirmed. However prepackaged leafy greens, salad blends, and salad kits are food items being investigated. This notice will be updated as new information becomes available.

At this time, the risk to residents is low, but given that Listeria can cause severe illness to some high-risk groups, Canadians are being asked to review and follow proper safe food handling practices in an effort to prevent illnesses.

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can be found in food, soil, plants, sewage and other places in nature. Eating food with Listeria on it can cause a serious disease, called listeriosis, in high-risk groups. People can get listeriosis by eating meat, fish, dairy products, plants or vegetables contaminated with Listeria.

Ongoing Investigation

Currently, there are seven (7) cases of Listeria monocytogenes in five provinces related to this outbreak: Ontario (3), Quebec (1), New Brunswick (1), Prince Edward Island (1), and Newfoundland and Labrador (1). Individuals became sick between September 2015 and early January 2016. The majority of cases (71%) are female, with an average age of 81 years. All cases have been hospitalized, and one person has died, however it has not been determined if Listeria contributed to the cause of death. 1

Additional information

Please also see the Listeria Fact Sheet attached to this release for additional details.

1 Public Health Agency of Canada

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For further information, please contact:

Atul Jain
Manager, Inspection Services
Peterborough Public Health
705-743-1000, ext. 259