E. coli outbreak update

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit continues to investigate an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 in North Bay. There are 21 cases; two are laboratory confirmed for E. coli O157:H7, and 19 are strongly suspected to be part of the outbreak.

There are some foods in common among those who are ill and food samples have been sent for testing. To protect public health, the Medical Officer of Health has put precautionary measures in place.

“While most people recover without treatment, anyone with bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps and vomiting should get medical attention immediately,” said Dr. Catherine Whiting, Medical Officer of Health. “The incubation period of E. coli is anywhere from 24 hours to 10 days, so we anticipate more cases over the next few days.”

E. coli O157:H7 is spread through infected unpasteurized milk or cider, raw vegetables, or ground beef and hand-to-mouth contact. This type of E. coli is linked to Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), which can cause kidney failure especially in young children and the elderly.

If you have symptoms or are in close contact with someone who has these symptoms, be sure to:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot running water before food contact and after toileting or changing diapers

• Effectively clean under fingernails with a nailbrush and soap with hot running water

• Have separate towels for those who are sick

• Clean bathroom taps, toilets, and doorknobs at least once a day with an antiseptic cleaner (such as 1 part bleach in 10 parts of water)

• Wash clothes, especially underclothes, in hot water and dry in a hot dryer for at least half an hour. If a dryer is not available, dry in direct sunshine

For more information, visit the Health Unit’s web site at www.healthunit.biz or call (705) 474-1400 or 1-800-563-3808.

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