Cheese sold in Canada recalled because of contamination with E. coli

Jean Perrin brand Morbier de Scey and Raclette de Scey (cheeses) are under recall in Canada because of contamination with pathogenic E. coli.

According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency the cheeses were distributed in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Quebec and possibly in other provinces and territories.

The recall was triggered by a recall in another country, but the agency did not specify what country. No illnesses have been confirmed in Canada in relation to the recalled products.

Consumers can use the following information to determine whether they have the recalled cheese in their homes. Some of the cheese was likely sold without labeling.

About E. coli infections

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled cheese and developed symptoms of E. coli infection should seek medical attention and tell their doctor about their possible exposure to the bacteria. Specific tests are required to diagnose the infections, which can mimic other illnesses.

The symptoms of E. coli infections vary for each person but often include severe stomach cramps and diarrhea, which is often bloody. Some patients may also have a fever. Most patients recover within five to seven days. Others can develop severe or life-threatening symptoms and complications.

About 5 to 10 percent of those diagnosed with E. coli infections develop a potentially life-threatening kidney failure complication, known as a hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Symptoms of HUS include fever, abdominal pain, feeling very tired, decreased frequency of urination, small unexplained bruises or bleeding, and pallor. 

Many people with HUS recover within a few weeks, but some suffer permanent injuries or death. This condition can occur among people of any age but is most common in children younger than five years old because of their immature immune systems, older adults because of deteriorating immune systems, and people with compromised immune systems such as cancer patients. 

People who experience HUS symptoms should immediately seek emergency medical care. People with HUS will likely be hospitalized because the condition can cause other serious and ongoing problems such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, brain damage, and neurologic problems.

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