Canada Pistachio Salmonella Outbreak Rises to 105 Cases

The Public Health Agency of Canada says 105 people have now been confirmed sick in a salmonella outbreak linked to pistachios and pistachio-containing products.

The latest update released Wednesday reports 26 new cases since the last count earlier this month. Sixteen people have been hospitalized, five more than before. Illnesses have been reported since early March and continued into early September.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued 26 recalls of pistachios and related products since July. Recalled items include pistachio kernels, baklava, ice cream, chocolate, and particularly Dubai-style chocolate with pistachios, which has gained popularity on social media.

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Health officials warn that the number of people infected is likely higher than reported, as many cases of salmonella go untested or unreported.

Symptoms of salmonella infection include fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sudden headaches. Most people recover on their own within a week, but seniors, young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization.

The youngest confirmed case is a two-year-old, while the oldest is 95. The majority of cases have been reported in Quebec and Ontario, with additional infections in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick. Health officials also noted that about 75 per cent of confirmed cases are female.

Authorities advise that people infected with salmonella should not prepare food for others, as the bacteria can spread easily. Consumers are urged to check the CFIA website for the full list of recalled products and either discard or return any affected items.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to monitor the outbreak. Consumers are reminded to stay alert for new recalls and to follow food safety guidelines to reduce the risk of infection.