Health unit still has no source for E. coli outbreak

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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There are now 209 cases, of which 39 are lab confirmed for E. coli O157:H7. Primary cases being reported had symptoms that started before October 22, 2008 and continue to be linked to Harvey’s in North Bay, Ontario. We still expect to see secondary cases (that is, people who get sick by being exposed to someone who is sick with E. coli O157:H7). This number includes cases from 8 Ontario Health Units and one case in Quebec.

“Our thoughts go out to all those who are dealing with illness from E. coli, especially the family with their child who is in critical condition in hospital with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS),” said Dr. Catherine Whiting, Medical Officer of Health.

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, which can result in kidney failure, occurs in 3 to 5% of those infected with E.coli O157:H7 and up to 15% in children under age ten infected with E. coli O157:H7. Symptoms of HUS are irritability, fatigue, puffiness around the eyes and ankles, and a decrease in amount of urine produced. These symptoms start about one week after onset of E. coli symptoms and it is important to watch for these symptoms even after diarrhea starts to clear.

Dr Whiting stresses “it is very important that everyone work together to prevent the spread of E. coli. In particular people who have been ill should not return to work until they are symptom-free for 48 hours. For people who are sick with E. coli O157:H7 and work in a daycare, health care facility or in the food service industry, they must have doctor’s note stating they have two negative stool samples, before they can return to work. Thorough hand washing and taking other precautions is essential for everyone.”

The Health Unit has closed the Call Centre and thanks all those who called in to be part of the ongoing investigation. The information they provided will help the Health Unit further investigate the difference between the foods people ate that became ill, and those who did not become ill.

While the investigation to find the source continues, at this time no specific product or process has been identified as the cause. For any results from the provincial labs, media can contact the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care Media Relations line at 1-888-414-4774. 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.

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, or contact Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000 day or night.

The Health Unit will be open this Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. for E. coli related issues only. Staff will be available by phone at 474-1400 or 1-800-563-2808, or at 681 Commercial St, North Bay.

For more information about E. coli, you can visit our website at www.healthunit.biz.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

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

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