Canada: Listeria outbreak linked to 3 deaths

The Public Health Agency of Canada has confirmed 20 cases of Listeriosis, a serious illness caused by the Listeria bacteria, across four provinces. The affected individuals fell ill between August 2023 and July 2024. While none of the cases are currently severe, the outbreak has been linked to three deaths. Individuals affected range in age from seven to 89, with 70 percent of the cases occurring in those aged 50 and older. The agency has reported that fifteen individuals have been hospitalized due to the outbreak. Of the 20 confirmed cases, 13 occurred in Ontario, five in Quebec, one in Nova Scotia, and one in Alberta. The source of the Listeria contamination has been traced to a production line at Joriki, a third-party beverage packaging facility in Pickering, Ontario, used by plant-based milk manufacturer Danone Canada, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. In light of the Listeriosis outbreak, Public Health Canada advises individuals to consult their doctor if they exhibit symptoms of Listeria infection and to refrain from preparing food for others if diagnosed.