HALIFAX – Health and Wellness is reporting no new cases of E. coli in the province on Thursday.
Ten cases of E. coli 0157, the same strain that killed seven people in Walkerton, Ont. in 2000, have been confirmed in Nova Scotia, including one each in Cumberland County, Colchester East Hants and Pictou County.
Health officials are still trying to determine the exact source of the contamination, although believes a number of cases across the country could be tied to fast food restaurants.
New Brunswick's chief medical officer of health Dr. Eilish Cleary said during her province's investigation one of the significant facts is that all those affected ate in fast food restaurants. She said there were different restaurants and they consumed a wide range of food, including meat products and produce.
It's believed the source is no longer a threat because no new cases have been diagnosed.
The outbreak led the Public Health Agency of Canada to issue an advisory.
E. coli can be transmitted by eating undercooked meat, food that has been contaminated during preparation or from another person affected by the bacteria.
Symptoms are similar to gastro-intestinal illness, including severe cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting.
Health officals say it's important to peel all vegetables and fruits before eating, thoroughly cooking all meat products and cleaning all cutting boards and food preparation areas.
