Jan 12, 2013- 11:43 AM
The latest evidence indicates that the most probable source of these illnesses is lettuce distributed by FreshPoint Inc., primarily to some KFC and KFC-Taco Bell restaurants, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada.
As lettuce has a short shelf life, it is believed the product is no longer available; however, the investigation is ongoing and additional cases may be identified in connection with this outbreak, according to a news release.
As an added precaution, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is working with FreshPoint Inc. to recall any remaining affected products from these restaurants.
Symptoms of E. coli illness include stomach cramps and diarrhea (possibly bloody) and vomiting.
E. coli illness sometimes leads to a serious complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can cause kidney failure. Children are at particular risk of developing HUS. People typically become ill two to five days, and sometimes longer, after eating contaminated food.
Ontario identifies approximately 229 cases of E. coli each year.
