Canada Also Hit by Salmonella Enteritidis Outbreak Caused by Peaches
The United States Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak caused by contaminated Prima Wawona peaches has spread to Canada, causing 33 confirmed illnesses and three hospitalizations in two provinces: Ontario (22) and Quebec (11). These illnesses occurred between June and August 2020. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is confident that the outbreak has not been caused by peaches grown in Canada; rather that this outbreak has been caused by contaminated peaches shipped from the United States. Epidemiological evidence procured by the CDC has indicated that the most probable source of the August 2020 Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak is peaches, specifically peaches supplied by Prima Wawona and Wawona Packing Company. A consumer advisor issued by the CFIA recalled Prima Wawona peaches sold from June 1, 2020, to August 22, 2020, under the following brand names: Extrafresh, Harvest Sweet, Prima, Sweet 2 Eat, Sweet O, Sweet Value, Wawona, and Wegmans. The recall includes yellow, white, and organic peaches sold loose, bagged, or in bulk. Consumers who have purchased the product are urged to not consume it; rather, dispose it immediately and clean all surfaces that have come in contact with the product thoroughly in order to avoid cross contamination. The CDC and CFIA are currently collaborating to conduct a complete investigation of the extent and source of the Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak. The United States currently has 68 reported cases, with 14 hospitalizations in nine states ( IA, MD, MI, MN, NJ, NY, PA, VA, and WI).
In n interview with National Food Safety Attorney Ron Simon, he noted he believes that more illnesses will be reported under the ongoing investigation, as “… symptoms of a Salmonella infection typically begin two to four days after ingesting the contaminated food,” and the most recent recall was only made two days ago.
Salmonellosis symptoms most commonly include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, though more severe cases can experience high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash, blood in the urine or stool, and in some cases may become fatal. According to Simon, if anyone has been exposed and is suffering from Salmonella poisoning symptoms, they should contact a doctor for the best course of treatment. In addition, Ron Simon noted that those exposed may also have a valid claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and other remedies and are may want to speak to a salmonella lawyer.
