Two others ill from E. coli

13.jul.07
The Sun Times (Ontario)
Denis Langlois

Two more people have become infected with E. coli through secondary exposure to an outbreak last month at a day-away program in Hanover, Ontario.
Susan Shular, manager of control of infectious diseases with the Grey Bruce Health Unit, was cited as saying in an interview Thursday that both people had contact with individuals infected with E. coli O157 in the June 22 outbreak at the Saugeen Central Day Away Program at the Hanover and District Hospital.
Shular was further cited as saying that E.coli can be passed from person to person through the "fecal to oral route," as the bacteria is shed through the stool, adding, "You break the chain of infection with good hand hygiene and good food preparation."
Neither of the people infected through secondary exposure have required hospitalization.
Eight people were infected in the original outbreak. Four needed to be hospitalized. Three remain in hospital, but their condition is improving.
The health unit is still investigating what caused the original outbreak. The process includes looking into what food was served, how it was handled and hygiene.
The day-away program at the Hanover hospital will remain closed as the investigation continues. It is expected to reopen July 20.