E. coli outbreak connected to Ontario

By Angelica Haggert

A total of 30 cases of E. coli 0157 are being investigated, including six cases in Ontario.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the outbreak is linked to romaine lettuce and covers five provinces outside of Ontario, including Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador.

E. coli are bacteria that live in the intestines of cattle and poultry. E. coli illness is commonly caused by raw fruits and vegetables that have come in contact with feces from infected animals. The lettuce in question was likely contaminated in the field by soil, contaminated water, animals or improperly composted manure, according to the Public Health Agency.

One person has died so far due to the outbreak. All illnesses have presented during November and December of 2017.

The outbreak investigation is ongoing, and the public health notice will be updated as the investigation continues.

From the Public Health Agency:

The following symptoms can appear within one to ten days after contact with the bacteria:

• nausea
• vomiting
• headache
• mild fever
• severe stomach cramps
• watery or bloody diarrhea