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Health Unit reports total of E coli cases up to 158

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit News Release ******************** There are now a total of 158 cases of E coli O157:H7, of which 35 are lab confirmed for E. coli O157:H7. Dr. Catherine Whiting indicates that “ ..



North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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There are now a total of 158 cases of E coli O157:H7, of which 35 are lab confirmed for E. coli O157:H7. Dr. Catherine Whiting indicates that “ ..the number of cases increased since yesterday, as was anticipated, as other health units identify new cases within their districts. Eight other health units are investigating cases.” At this time, the majority of cases are linked to one location - the Harvey’s Restaurant in North Bay. People who are ill range from 1 to 90 years old, and most are now recovering at home.

“It is important for those who have been ill to help prevent the spread of E. coli, by continuing thorough hand washing practices.” says Dr. Catherine Whiting, Medical Officer of Health for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. “The Health Unit reinforces that if you have been ill with E. coli, do not return to work until you are symptom-free. If you work in a daycare, health care facility or in the food service industry, before returning to work you should have a doctor’s note that states your lab results are negative.”

The investigation to find the source continues, although at this time no specific product or process has been identified as the cause. The Health Unit is working closely with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the Agency for Health Protection and Promotion and The Public Health Agency of Canada.

The best way to prevent the spread of E. coli O157: H7 to others is to:

• Wash hands thoroughly, using soap and hot running water, before any food contact, and after any toileting or changing of diapers.
• Use a nailbrush and soap under hot running water to clean under fingernails. Rinse thoroughly.
• Have separate towels for sick people.
• Clean bathroom taps, toilets, and doorknobs at least once every day with an antiseptic cleaner such as bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Even better would be a separate bathroom for the sick person.
• Wash clothes, especially underclothes, in hot water and dry in a hot dryer for at least half an hour. If the clothes cannot be put in the dryer, dry in direct sunshine.

Important facts about E. coli O157:H7:

• E. coli is not spread to others before you have symptoms (anywhere from one to 10 days after consuming E. coli)
• After you get symptoms, E. coli O157:H7 can be spread from person to person (for example, by hand to mouth contact through improper hand washing after using the toilet)
• After symptoms are done - usually from seven to ten days - an adult can still spread the bacteria for up to one week and children for up to three weeks
• Adults with E. coli O157:H7 or E. coli-like symptoms should not use recreational water venues, such as pools, for two weeks after symptoms are gone and four weeks for children, unless laboratory test is negative

Symptoms of illness from E. coli O157:H7 include diarrhea, which may be bloody, stomach cramps, and/or vomiting and possibly a fever. Anyone suffering with these symptoms is advised to seek medical attention.

For more information about E. coli O157:H7, contact:
• Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000 day or night
• The Health Unit at 474-1400 or 1-800-563-2808
• www.healthunit.biz

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