August 22, 2013 Print-friendly version

Update on investigation into food borne illness

Toronto Public Health continues to investigate an outbreak of food borne illness among individuals who visited the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto.



Initial reports indicated that 12 people who attended the CNE on Tuesday, August 20 reported becoming ill with vomiting and diarrhea. As of 9 p.m. yesterday, Toronto Public Health had received close to 100 reports from individuals who experienced gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming food at the CNE from August 16 to 20.



"Based on information to date, Toronto Public Health has concentrated our investigation around one food premise located at the CNE, however, all possible sources of illness are being investigated," said Dr. Lisa Berger, Associate Medical Officer of Health. "Overall risk to the general public is low."



Food samples have been sent to the lab for testing. These results typically take 48 to 72 hours to complete. At this time, Toronto Public Health has not yet received the results and is waiting to confirm the source of illness.



Symptoms of illness range from an upset stomach to more serious symptoms, including diarrhea, fever, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and dehydration. If you have experienced symptoms of illness after eating food at the CNE from August 16 to August 20, Public Health encourages you to immediately seek medical attention and notify Toronto Public Health by calling 311.



Prior to the opening of the CNE, food handler training was offered to over 1,600 food handlers. During the course of the opening weekend of the CNE, Toronto Public Health (TPH) inspected 200 food premises. TPH continues to actively monitor and work with vendors on food safety for the duration of the annual fair.



Toronto Public Health is working closely with the CNE on this ongoing investigation. The health of Torontonians remains our number one priority.



Note: There will be no media availability today but TPH will continue to update media as new information becomes available. Please follow us @TOPublicHealth for updates.



Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.





Media Contact Kris Scheuer Toronto Public Health 416-338-8020 kscheue@toronto.ca



