2008 Canada listeriosis outbreak

2008 Canada Listeriosis Outbreak was a significant public health crisis in Canada that occurred in the summer of 2008. The outbreak was traced back to a Maple Leaf Foods plant in Toronto, Ontario, and was linked to the deaths of 22 people.

Background

Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The disease primarily affects older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and adults with weakened immune systems. It can be contracted by consuming contaminated food, particularly ready-to-eat meats, dairy products, and seafood.

Outbreak

The 2008 Canada Listeriosis Outbreak began in July and lasted until September. The source of the outbreak was traced back to two production lines at a Maple Leaf Foods plant in Toronto. The plant was shut down on August 20, 2008, and all products from the affected lines were recalled.

Response

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency led the response to the outbreak. They worked closely with provincial and local health authorities to identify the source of the outbreak and to prevent further cases. The response included a massive recall of Maple Leaf Foods products, public health warnings, and increased inspections of food processing facilities.

Aftermath

The outbreak resulted in 22 deaths and made hundreds of people sick. It led to significant changes in Canada's food safety regulations and practices. Maple Leaf Foods took responsibility for the outbreak and implemented a comprehensive food safety program to prevent future outbreaks.

See also

• List of foodborne illness outbreaks
• Food safety in Canada