The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health in New Brunswick Canada is investigating five confirmed cases of E. coli 0157 in that province. Two of the cases are in the Saint John region, and three are in the Fredericton region. All of the patients were seen in hospital emergency rooms; one person was admitted.
Dr. Eilish Cleary, Chief Medical Officer of Health, said in a statement, “at this time, we do not know if the cases have a common source. A number of sources are being investigated and we are still gathering information.”
To prevent further spread of this outbreak, public health officials recommend that all people thoroughly wash hands after using the bathroom, after changing diapers, and before and during food preparation. Avoid contact between cooked or ready-to-eat foods and raw meat and poultry. Thoroughly cook all meats, and do not consume unpasteurized dairy products.
If anyone is experiencing the symptoms of an E. coli infection, including severe, painful abdominal cramps, watery and/or bloody diarrhea, mild fever, nausea, and vomiting, they should see their health care provider immediately. Complications of this infection can include hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can be life-threatening.
