The Public Health Agency of Canada says 105 people have now been confirmed sick in a salmonella outbreak linked to pistachios.
An update released Wednesday shows 26 new cases since earlier this month. Sixteen people have been hospitalized — five more than before — with illnesses starting in early March and continuing into early September.
Since July, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued 26 recalls for pistachios and foods made with pistachios. The recalled items include pistachio kernels, baklava, ice cream, and chocolate that may be contaminated with salmonella.
Health officials say the real number of people infected is likely higher, since not everyone reports their illness. Symptoms of salmonella can include fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sudden headaches.
Most people recover within a week, but seniors, young children, pregnant people, and those with weaker immune systems face a higher risk of serious illness. The youngest reported patient is two years old, and the oldest is 95. About 75% of those sickened are women.
Most cases have been in Quebec and Ontario, with others in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick. Officials warn that people who are infected should not cook for others, since they can spread the bacteria.
A full list of recalled products is available on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s website. Officials advise throwing away or returning any recalled items.
