The Hepatitis A Infections outbreak Linked to Imported Fresh Organic Strawberry, says Public Health Agency of Canada

The PHAC (Public Health Agency of Canada) has announced a collaboration with provincial public health partners, the CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency ), and Health Canada to look into the outbreak of Hepatitis A infections in Saskatchewan and Alberta.

As per the investigation findings, the consumption of imported fresh organic strawberries is the most probable source of the infection. In addition, several individuals who fell sick reported consuming fresh organic strawberries before their illness.

These strawberries were purchased between March 5 and 9, 2022, at Co-op stores in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Unfortunately, they’re no longer available for purchase in Canada.

If you had bought fresh organic strawberries between March 05 and March 09, 2022, throw them away. If you don’t know where the strawberries came from, discard them.

If you suspect that you have been exposed to these organic strawberries or experience any symptoms of hepatitis A infection, consult your healthcare provider immediately. Vaccination can help the individual from the Hepatitis A infection if given within 14 days of exposure.

As of May 27, 2022, there are 10 laboratory-confirmed cases of hepatitis A sickness being investigated in two provinces; Alberta and Saskatchewan. People reported sickness aging between 10 to 75 years. In addition, 4 patients have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported So far.

Currently, the CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation into the fresh organic strawberries purchased between March 5 and 9, 2022. As of now, there are no food recall warnings associated with the disease.

People of older age are at the maximum risk. Also, people with underlying liver cases are at risk. However, people infected with the disease will recover fully. Also, it is possible for some people to be infected and yet be asymptotic and spread the virus to others.

Symptoms

Symptoms are most likely to happen in adults than in children. Signs of the disease are mentioned below

  • Fever
  • Dark Urine
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Stomach Cramps or Abdominal Pain
  • Jaundice ( Yellowing of the eyes and skin)

 

Symptoms usually last less than two months. Mild symptoms can last only one or two weeks, whereas severe symptoms can last 9 months.