There have been 126 confirmed cases of Salmonella Reading illness across the country according to The Public Health Agency of Canada.
31 of those cases have occurred within BC.
A majority of the cases related to the strain being investigated occurred between October 2018 and November 2019.
Although Northern BC residents should remain cautious when handling uncooked poultry products, there is no cause for any concern.
Northern Health Environmental Health Officer, Daisy Tam stated that health is “aware” of the outbreak, but “not involved in the investigation.”
Marsha Taylor, British Columbia Centre of Disease Control (BC CDC) Epidemiologist emphasized the importance of proper cooking and handling of raw poultry.
“During this time of year where turkey can be a really popular food item, there are safe ways to handle it and prepare it so that everyone is healthy over the holidays.”
Taylor added that individuals should make sure they cook turkey and chicken: “to an internal temperature of 74°C or hotter, and you want to make sure you’re reaching that temperature using a meat thermometer.”
More information can be found on the Government of Canada’s website.
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