XSDOttawa: Health officials are reporting an expansion of a Salmonella outbreak linked to deli meats sold in grocery stores and prepared sandwiches, with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirming 84 illnesses and nine hospitalizations since April. This represents an increase of approximately a dozen new illnesses and two additional hospitalizations since the agency’s last update in late June.
The infections have been traced to specific products: Rea brand Genoa Salami Sweet, Rea brand Genoa Salami Hot, and Bona brand Mild Genova Salami. These products were subject to a recall by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) on June 10, impacting Ontario, Alberta, and Manitoba.
While the majority of reported illnesses are in Alberta, with 67 confirmed cases, the outbreak has also affected Ontario (15 cases) and Manitoba (1 case). One illness reported in British Columbia has been linked to travel to Alberta.
Salmonella is a food-borne bacterial illness that can cause severe and potentially deadly infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Even healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms including fever, headache, vomiting, nausea, cramps, and diarrhea. Importantly, the bacteria can spread days or even weeks after infection, even if symptoms are not present.
PHAC warns that more illnesses may continue to be reported as the investigation progresses. Consumers are advised to check their products for the following codes: 5035 226, 5049 226, 5020 228, 5035 228, and 5035 226. If these products are found, they should not be consumed and should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase. Anyone experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection after consuming these products should seek medical attention.
