Food Safety Report: Calgary-Based Daycare Operator linked to E.coli Outbreak

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Update September 12, 2023

As of Sept. 12, there were 264 lab-confirmed cases of E. coli connected to this outbreak. 25 individuals have been hospitalized. Among them, 22 have received confirmation of suffering from hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe condition resulting from E. coli infection. Additionally, 6 patients are undergoing peritoneal dialysis at Alberta Children’s Hospital. Children with severe illness are currently in stable conditions and are receiving the necessary care within the hospital. Meanwhile, other children and their families are receiving care and support at three outpatient clinics established within Calgary hospitals.

The central kitchen utilized by the daycares underwent a total of five inspections this year. The most recent inspection occurred on September 5th, prompted by the proactive closure of the kitchen in response to the outbreak. This inspection revealed 3 critical violations pertaining to food handling, sanitization, and pest control. Additionally, two non-critical violations were identified concerning an odor issue and the storage of utensils.

A detailed investigation is currently underway to determine the source of the contamination, which is believed to be a food source from the central kitchen used by the daycares.

Source: www.alberta.ca/release.cfm

September 04, 2023

Alberta Health Service (AHS) is investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to a Calgary daycare operator. They identified the outbreak across 6 locations of a Calgary daycare and 5 additional sites that share a central kitchen. To date, 17 lab-confirmed cases have been linked to the outbreak, as well as 12 individuals hospitalized, and up to 50 children presenting to hospital. Investigation into the source of the outbreak within the facilities is ongoing, with heightened scrutiny on the shared central kitchen among the involved daycare centers.

The subsequent locations, all situated in Calgary, have received a closure order until issues are resolved:
- Fueling Brains Braeside
- Fueling Brains West 85th
- Fueling Brains New Brighton
- Fueling Brains Centennial
- Fueling Brains Bridgeland
- Fueling Brains McKnight

As well as:
- Braineer Academy
- Kidz Space
- Little Oak Early Education (formerly Mangrove)
- Almond Branch School
- Vik Academy in Okotoks

Alberta Health Service (AHS) acknowledges the predominant symptom of E.coli, diarrhea, tends to surface one to 10 days after consumption of contaminated food. In light of this, families with children attending any of these facilities have been advised to be vigilant for signs of sickness and take action should symptoms emerge.

In case you are experiencing E. coli symptoms such as watery diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting; stomach cramps; and mild fever, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/Page17659.aspx