Canadian government announces listeriosis outbreak in the country

The Canadian government's official website reported that an outbreak of listeria bacteria in Canada has led to the death of two people and the hospitalization of nine others.

“Laboratory tests have confirmed that 12 of the reported cases are caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. Nine of the affected individuals were hospitalized and two died. Most reported consuming Silk and Great Value plant-based beverages,” the Canadian government said in a statement.

According to the statement, 10 cases of the disease were recorded in Ontario, and two in Quebec and Nova Scotia. These plant-based drinks have been withdrawn from the market.

The statement confirms: “It is not unlikely that new cases of the disease will be reported, as the incubation period for infection can range from 9 to 35 days. It is likely that this outbreak will not be limited to the provinces or regions where the disease is prevalent, because the aforementioned herbal drinks that were withdrawn were distributed throughout the country.”

Listeriosis is an infection caused by the Gram-positive bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, which is acquired by eating contaminated food.

This bacteria can enter the body by eating contaminated dairy products or fresh milk, raw vegetables, raw meat, or frozen foods that do not need to be cooked before eating.

The infected person suffers from fever, chills, muscle pain, in addition to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Listeriosis can cause miscarriage or premature birth in pregnant women, and even death of the newborn.