N.B.
resident linked to U.S.
salmonella outbreak
Source of Article: http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Health/resident+linked+salmonella+outbreak/1181151/story.html
Canwest News ServiceJanuary
15, 2009 3:01 PM
OTTAWA — A
Maritimer has been linked to an extensive
salmonella outbreak south of the border, the Public Health Agency of Canada
said Thursday.
"I can confirm that there is one case associated with the U.S. outbreak in New
Brunswick in an individual known to visit the U.S.
frequently," said a spokesman for the agency, Philippe Brideau.
Health and food safety authorities in the state of Minnesota say the likely source of the
outbreak that has infected more than 400 people in 43 states is King Nut
peanut butter, Brideau said.
The product has been recalled from U.S. store shelves.
Brideau said the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
has determined that the peanut butter is not available in Canada.
"We're still monitoring the ongoing outbreak of salmonella infections
in the United States and
we are still working with health authorities in New Brunswick to gather more information
on the case," Brideau said.
The Centre for Disease Control says the outbreak may have contributed to
three deaths.
On its website, the centre says most persons infected with salmonella
develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12—72 hours after infection. It
says the illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, with most people recovering
without treatment.
However, it warns severe salmonella infections causing death can occur,
particularly among infants, elderly persons and those with weak immune
systems.
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