The Public Health Agency of Canada has reported that the number of individuals affected by a salmonella outbreak linked to pistachios has increased to 105. This update, released on Wednesday, shows a rise of 26 new cases compared to the previous count earlier this month. Out of these cases, 16 individuals have been hospitalized, marking an increase of five since the onset of illnesses in early March, which extended until early September.
Since July, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued 26 recalls of pistachios and products containing pistachios. Various products suspected of salmonella contamination include specific brands of pistachio kernels, baklava, ice cream, and chocolate.
Although the confirmed cases stand at 105, the Public Health Agency believes that many more individuals may have been infected with salmonella but have not reported it. Symptoms of salmonella infection can range from fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps to sudden headaches. While most people recover within a week, certain groups such as seniors, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
The outbreak has seen a two-year-old and a 95-year-old as the youngest and oldest reported cases, respectively, with 75% of the salmonella cases affecting females. The majority of infections have occurred in Quebec and Ontario, with additional cases reported in B.C., Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick.
Individuals who are infected with salmonella are advised not to prepare food for others to prevent the spread of the bacteria. A list of recalled products can be found on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s website. Anyone in possession of these products is urged to discard them or return them promptly.
