ARCHIVED - Listeriosis (Listeria) Outbreak

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Chief Public Health Officer of Canada's Message Video Transcript

I’m Dr. David Butler-Jones, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.

I want to take this time to update you on the state of the Listeria outbreak.

We’re all understandably concerned whenever we hear that something as precious as the food we eat may pose a danger.

I offer a sincere wish for a speedy recovery to anyone who has fallen ill, and my sympathies and prayers go to those who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

To protect ourselves and our families there are some simple steps we can take.

First, check the Maple Leaf Foods recall list on this web page.  And if there’s anything you have doubts about, just throw it out.

Avoiding unpasteurized milk and milk products, and washing fruits and vegetables will always be important.

Finally, take care to refrigerate and cook foods properly, and keep your counters, knives, and cutting boards clean.

Listeriosis can cause flu-like symptoms, such as persistent fever, severe headaches, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting.

For most people, the risk posed by listeria is very low.  Healthy people who are exposed to it are rarely affected by the bacteria.

But there is potential risk to pregnant women, the very old, the very young and people with weakened immune systems.

If you’re in one of these risk groups and are suffering from these symptoms you should speak to a doctor or health provider.

Keep in mind that serious diseases like Listeria and other infections can actually occur at any time, and aren’t just related to this outbreak.

Years of effort have made sure that our food supply is one of the world’s safest.

But there are so many bacteria, microbes, and viruses out there that outbreaks like this do happen.

Be assured that the Government of Canada is working closely with all provinces, territories, and with Maple Leaf Foods to respond to this outbreak and protect your health.