Public Advisory - E. coli 0157:H7 Outbreak in United States Associated with Bagged Fresh Spinach

News Release

OTTAWA The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is advising consumers not
to eat bagged fresh spinach from the United States at this time, until further
notice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) is reporting an outbreak
of E. coli O157:H7 illnesses in the U.S. that may be associated with the
consumption of bagged fresh spinach.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) reports that there are currently no
illnesses in Canada directly linked to this outbreak. However, since spinach
from the U.S. is regularly imported into Canada, and considering the uncertainty
of the source of contamination, consumers are advised not to eat bagged fresh
spinach from the U.S. at this time. Packaged spinach is labelled with country of
origin. If consumers are uncertain of its origin they can inquire with the
retailer.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has reported at least 50 cases
of illness in eight different states, including one death and eight cases of
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, a form of kidney failure.
The USFDA has not yet confirmed a source of contamination for this outbreak.
The CFIA, PHAC and Health Canada are working closely on the investigation of
this outbreak situation with U.S. officials.
Consumption of food contaminated with this E. coli O157:H7 bacteria may cause
serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses. Symptoms include severe
abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Some people may have seizures or strokes and
some may need blood transfusions and kidney dialysis. Although everyone is
susceptible to E. coli infection, people with compromised immune systems, young
children and the elderly are most at risk for developing serious complications.
Individuals who have experienced symptoms of illness after consuming spinach are
urged to contact their health care provider.
For more information consumers can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735.
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CFIA Media Relations: 613-228-6682

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Canadian Food Inspection Agency Health and Safety

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2016-12-15

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Public Advisory - E. coli 0157:H7 Outbreak in United States Associated with Bagged Fresh Spinach

News Release

Page details