Media inquiries: Jill Faulkner, Communications Coordinator (705) 474-1400, ext 2246         1-800-563-2808

For release October 18, 2008

E. Coli O157:H7 OUTBREAK UPDATE – October 18, 2008

There are now a total of 146 cases of which 24 are lab confirmed for E. coli O157:H7.  Included are cases being investigated by 6 other health units in Ontario.  At this time we believe the outbreak is localized to Harvey’s Restaurant on Algonquin Avenue in North Bay.  The people who are ill range from 1 to 90 years old. Some are in hospital receiving treatment, while most are recovering at home.  The Health Unit advises people with E. coli O157:H7 or E. coli like symptoms not to use recreational water venues such as pools for 2 weeks after symptoms resolve.  

“The Health Unit is screening staff at the restaurant located in North Bay.  This includes collecting samples and conducting interviews,” reports Dr. Catherine Whiting, Medical Officer of Health for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit.  Health Unit staff continue to collect information and analyze data to ensure that all possible sources of E. coli O157:H7 are being investigated.  City of North Bay emergency crews also conducted extra testing on the municipal water last weekend.  Lab test results confirm that drinking water is not the source.

This specific bacteria, E. coli O157:H7 is often transmitted by food containing the bacteria.  To get sick from E. coli O157:H7, the bacteria must be consumed.  The incubation period for E. coli O157:H7, that is, the time from being exposed to having symptoms is between 24 hours to 10 days.  During this incubation period, when the person does not have symptoms, the bacteria cannot be spread to others.  Once the person has symptoms, E. coli O157:H7 can be passed from person to person, for example, by hand to mouth contact through improper hand washing after using the toilet.  After symptoms have resolved, an adult can still spread the bacteria for 1 week or less and children for up to 3 weeks.  Good hand washing is the best way to protect yourself, your family and others.

To help prevent the spread of E. coli O157:H7, the Health Unit reminds all employers that if staff are ill they should not be working.  Symptoms of illness from E. coli O157:H7 include diarrhea, which may be bloody, stomach cramps, and/or vomiting and possibly a fever. Anyone suffering with these symptoms is advised to seek medical attention.

To prevent the spread of E. coli O157: H7 to others, follow these recommendations:

• Wash hands thoroughly, using soap and hot running water, before any food contact, and after any toileting or changing of diapers.
• Use a nailbrush and soap under hot running water to clean under fingernails. Rinse thoroughly.
• Have separate towels for sick people.
• Clean bathroom taps, toilets, and doorknobs at least once every day with an antiseptic cleaner such as bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Even better would be a separate bathroom for the sick person.
• Wash clothes, especially underclothes, in hot water and dry in a hot dryer for at least half an hour. If the clothes cannot be put in the dryer, dry in direct sunshine.
• Make healthy choices by choosing healthy foods from Canada’s Food Guide, getting plenty of sleep and being active on a regular basis.

 

The Health Unit continues to work very closely with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the Agency for Health Protection and Promotion and The Public Health Agency of Canada.  The staff at Harvey’s Restaurant also continues to be very cooperative during this investigation. 

Anyone with questions or concerns about E. coli O157:H7 may contact:

• Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000 day or night
• The Health Unit by phoning 474-1400 or 1-800-563-2808
• Additional information about E. coli O157:H7 is online at www.healthunit.biz

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