This nasty bacterial outbreak, mostly affecting Ontario, has now taken the life of a local, with an elderly person somewhere in Simcoe County dying from complications earlier this month.

  Several people have now died, and many more sickened by what experts believe is tainted meat from Maple Leaf Foods.  Here's a bit of info that may help alleviate, or increase your fears about Listeria.

..................................

Listeria is a bacteria that is found naturally in the environment. It can cause Listeriosis, a rare but serious illness, when food or drinks contaminated with the bacteria are consumed. Raw meats, vegetables, dairy products, soft cheeses and cold cuts are some examples of commonly contaminated foods.

Those most at risk of developing serious illness are pregnant women, the elderly and those with weak immune systems.

Most healthy people may have no or mild symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, fever or diarrhea, and will recover well on their own. Anyone who may have consumed the recalled meats and have symptoms compatible with Listeriosis should speak to their health care provider and mention their exposure. Symptoms may appear anywhere from three to 70 days after consuming contaminated products.

For more information on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency recall, check  www.inspection.gc.ca/. More information can also be found at  www.simcoemuskokahealth.org/ or by calling Your Health Connection at 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.