Bean sprouts suspected in Alberta E. coli cases
Dr. Chris Sikora says there have been 24 instances in the last two weeks and five people have been hospitalized.
The health agency suspects the cases are connected to contaminated bean sprouts from a local supplier who provides the product to restaurants and grocery stores.
Some patients exhibited symptoms after eating at restaurants. Alberta Health Services believes the E. coli was limited to one batch of sprouts that is no longer in circulation.
"Washing your fruits and vegetables prior to consumption is something that can help reduce risk," Sikora said Friday. "We believe in this point in time that there is no ongoing risk to the public."
E. coli bacteria live in the digestive tracts of humans and animals. There are many types and, while most are harmless, some strains can cause illness, abdominal cramping and diarrhea.
Others can cause more serious illness, including severe anemia or kidney failure.
Source: www.thestarphoenix.com