News and Stories

The Public Health Agency of Canada is investigating an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes. At this time, the source of the outbreak has not been identified and the investigation is ongoing. The Public Health Agency of Canada along with federal and provincial public health agencies are collaborating to determine the source of the outbreak and have stated prepackages leafy greens, salad blends and salad kits are food items being investigated.

What we know:

• 7 people are reported to be infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes
• 5 provinces are affected by this outbreak including Ontario (3), Quebec (1), New Brunswick (1), Prince Edward Island (1), and Newfoundland and Labrador (1). 
• All 7 ill people have been hospitalized
• 1 death may be linked to the outbreak
• Illness onset dates range from September 2015 to January 2016
• The majority of the cases (71%) are female with an average age of 81 years

For more in-depth information about Listeria monocytogenes, including the latest developments of the ongoing investigation, please refer to The Public Health Agency of Canada website: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/phn-asp/2016/listeria-eng.php

Markon will continue to update members should more information become available.

Lianna Kelly

Food Safety Director

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