Yersinia pseudotuberculosis - update 10/10/2014

10 October 2014

This statement contains the most up-to-date information on the possible source of contamination that has caused people to become ill with Yesinia pseudotuberculosis

There are currently 127 confirmed cases and 16 presumptive cases (suspected yet to be confirmed). A total of 38 people have been hospitalised.

On Thursday 9 October, Environmental and Scientific Research (ESR) provided MPI with its latest update of its studies into the possible source of contamination.

It is worth noting that over the past week the number of new cases has fallen, bearing in mind that the incubation period for this illness can be up to 21 days.

POSSIBLE SOURCE OF CONTAMINATION

ESR reports have identified a range of potential foods that have been linked to the outbreak. They do not, however, definitively identify a specific food as the source.

Some foods have been consumed by a significant proportion of those who have become ill. However they are foods that are also regularly consumed by people who are not ill. There is no single food that has been consumed by 100% of the cases.

MPI is continuing its investigation and tracing work to identify the source. We will continue to update the public with information as it comes to hand.

ADVICE TO CONSUMERS

Please apply normal food safety practice. If it looks off or smells off, throw it out. Otherwise keep fresh food chilled and wash fruit and vegetables before eating.

This remains the best preventative information available.

See your doctor, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice if you think you might have symptoms.

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