Ottawa (August 27, 2008) – A case of listeriosis that had been under investigation by Ottawa Public Health was not related to the ongoing nationwide recall of deli meats from a Toronto-based processing plant.

Dr. Isra Levy, the City’s Medical Officer of Health, said today that laboratory tests have shown that the illness was not caused by the strain of Listeria monocytogenes that has been isolated in the current outbreak.

In Ottawa, there has been one confirmed case of the disease linked to the outbreak. The person has recovered.

Public health officials advise that anyone who suspects they have meat contaminated with the bacteria in their fridge or freezer should dispose of it immediately.

“When in doubt, throw it out,” said Dr. Levy.

Ottawa Public Health continues to monitor the outbreak in the City.

More information is available from Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744 ext.28020 and at www.ottawa.ca/health.

A full list of the recalled meat products is available on the CFIA web site at http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2008/20080821e.shtml.

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