The Public Health Agency of Canada is collaborating with federal and provincial public health partners to investigate an outbreak of Hepatitis A infections linked to the frozen fruit product: Nature’s Touch Organic Berry Cherry Blend.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued a food recall warning advising Canadians of the recall of the frozen fruit product that has been distributed in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador and sold exclusively at Costco warehouse locations.
The overall risk to Canadians is low. Most people with Hepatitis A recover on their own; however, rarely, some people can develop a more severe illness including the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms are usually mild, and the illness usually lasts one to two weeks. Although severe cases can last several months, most people recover without treatment.
As of April 17, 2016 thirteen cases have been confirmed: nine in Ontario, three in Quebec and one in Newfoundland. There have been no cases in PEI.
If you have Nature’s Touch Organic Berry Cherry Blend frozen fruit in your home, do not eat this product.
If you suspect you have been exposed to the recalled product or have symptoms consistent with Hepatitis A (fever, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, jaundice, dark urine, fatigue) see your health care provider immediately.
Vaccination can prevent the onset of symptoms if given within two weeks of exposure. Costco Canada is offering free Hepatitis A vaccinations at their store locations for anyone who has eaten these frozen berries in the last 14 days. Islanders can also get vaccinated locally at Health PEI Public Health Nursing or community pharmacies and submit their receipts to Costco for reimbursement.
For more information visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s website at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/phn-asp/2016/hepatitisa-eng.php.