A public health warning has been issued about an outbreak of hepatitis A infection in Canada, which officials say is likely due to strawberry consumption.
On Friday, May 27, the Public Health Agency of Canada announced that they were collaborating with the Food Inspection Agency of Canada and Health Canada to investigate infections in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
They warn that the affected fresh imported organic strawberries were purchased at Co-op stores in both provinces between March 5 and 9, 2022, but are no longer available for purchase in Canada.
However, they advise you to check your freezer if you buy them and freeze them to eat later.
\ u201cCheck your freezer if you bought fresh organic strawberries imported between March 5 and 9 at the Co-op stores in AB and SK and freeze them to eat later. Don’t eat these strawberries. Find out more:
– Health Canada and PHAC (@Health Canada and PHAC) 1653829215
As of May 27, there were 10 confirmed hepatitis A cases in the lab of people between the ages of 10 and 75 who became ill in April.
Four people have been hospitalized and no deaths have been reported.
“If you suspect that you have been exposed to these organic strawberries or have symptoms compatible with hepatitis A infection, consult your healthcare provider immediately,” the PHAC warns.
“Vaccination can prevent hepatitis A infection if given within 14 days of exposure.”
Some of the symptoms of the disease include fever, dark urine, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, stomach cramps or abdominal pain, and jaundice.
They also say that the symptoms usually last less than two months and usually appear between 14 and 28 days after being exposed to the disease. Not all infected people will have symptoms.
“Anyone can get hepatitis A,” says PHAC. “Most people who get sick from a hepatitis A infection will fully recover, but the risk of serious complications increases with old age and in those with underlying liver disease.”
Rest assured, folks!
The cover image of this article has only been used for illustrative purposes.