London, ON - The Middlesex-London Health Unit has been notified of an additional case of E. coli O157:H7, bringing to four the number of local cases linked to the recall of Compliments brand Super 8 Beef Burgers. The Health Unit is concerned that there may still be recalled product in people’s freezers, and that if consumed, this could result in further illness.

The Health Unit is asking for the media’s assistance in helping to advise London and Middlesex County residents to check their refrigerators and freezers.

The recall of Compliments brand Super 8 Beef Burgers was initiated on Wednesday, October 2, 2013. The product has been distributed in Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Ontario, and sold through Foodland, Sobeys, FreshCo and Price Chopper stores. The recall affects all best before dates of the frozen product.

Food contaminated with E. coli O157:H7 may not look or smell spoiled. Symptoms of infection include stomach pain and diarrhea, which may be severe and bloody. A serious complication called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome can develop as a result of E. coli O157:H7 infection, which can require blood transfusions and kidney dialysis, and can be fatal.

Anyone who exhibits signs or symptoms of E. coli O157:H7 infection, in particular stomach pain and severe or bloody diarrhea, should contact their health care provider.

For more information, please visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website at www.inspection.gc.ca.

Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 519-663-5317 ext. 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell)

Spokesperson:
Bryna Warshawsky, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit