Canadian Salmonella Outbreak Sends 34 To Hospital In Eight Provinces

The Public Health Agency of Canada is investigating an outbreak of salmonella that spans eight provinces and has resulted in several hospitalizations.

“No deaths have been reported,” the agency said in a statement.

“To date, the source of this investigation has not been identified, but the investigation is ongoing, and Canadians will continue to be updated as new information becomes available.”

More than half the people who got sick — between June 12 and Sept. 20 — are women.

There are currently 34 known cases across the country.

Here’s a breakdown by province:

> British Columbia (3)
> Alberta (6)
> Saskatchewan (2)
> Manitoba (2)
> Ontario (16)
> Quebec (3)
> New Brunswick (1)
> Nova Scotia (1)

Salmonella bacteria are found naturally in the intestines of animals, reptiles and birds, and most often are transmitted to people when they eat contaminated foods from both animal and fruit and vegetable sources.

Anyone can become sick with a salmonella infection — but infants, children, seniors and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness, and can get sick more easily than others.

Most people who become ill from a salmonella infection will recover fully after a few days.

It is possible for some people to be infected with the bacteria and not get sick or show any symptoms but still be able to spread the infection to others.

Illness can be avoided if safe food handling, preparation and cooking practices are closely followed, the health agency says.

Agencies/Canadajournal