Public Health Advisory: Illness Caused by E. coli

An outbreak investigation team is investigating a food-borne illness caused by E. coli 0157 in the East Hants area that is suspected in the death of an elderly person. Several other people were sent to hospital.

The suspected source of the infection is salad plates sold on Friday, May 22, as part of a community fund-raiser. Approximately 514 salad plates were distributed. Several individuals who were infected have already been identified and are being monitored.

Those infected have symptoms of nausea, abdominal cramps and diarrhea that may turn bloody. The outbreak team has distributed a communicable disease alert to emergency rooms in affected areas. Physicians are being notified of the outbreak and provided with an E. coli 0157 fact sheet to give to patients.

"We're continuing to contact people who could be affected," said Dr. Fran Galvon, medical officer of health for the northern region and lead for the outbreak team. "We're also monitoring the situation for secondary cases and for complications of infection."

The outbreak team consists of members of the departments of Health, Agriculture and Marketing, and Public Health Services Northern Region. Individuals with any questions or concerns can call Public Health at 1-800-430-9557 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Infection from E. coli 0157, or so-called hamburger disease, is caused by eating undercooked meat and contaminated fruits or vegetables. Drinking raw milk, contaminated water and contaminated apple cider are other sources. It can also be passed from one infected person to another.

Following basic hygienic practices in preparing and cooking food, combined with hand-washing, are common-sense steps to reduce the risk of infection.

Hand-washing is particularly important to prevent the spread of E. coli from one person to another. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling foods, before eating, after going to the bathroom or changing diapers, and after handling pets.

Cook meats until all the pink is gone. Wash all fruits and vegetables prior to eating.