The Public Health Agency of Canada is collaborating with federal and provincial public health partners to investigate an outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7, commonly called E.coli, with a possible link to leafy greens. A specific product has not been identified yet, and the investigation is ongoing.

At this time, the risk to Canadians is low. However, Canadians are reminded to follow safe food handling practices to avoid illness. (WTF are Canadians supposed to do with leafy greens?)

There have been 12 cases of E. coli with a matching genetic fingerprint reported in Alberta (9), Saskatchewan (1), Ontario (1), and Newfoundland and Labrador (1). The illness onset dates range from March 13 to March 31, 2015.

Based on the investigation findings to date, exposure to leafy greens has emerged as a possible source of illness. Leafy greens can include all varieties of lettuces and other green leaf vegetables such as kale, spinach, arugula, or chard. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s investigation into the food source is ongoing. If products are identified, the Agency will inform the public and ensure that they are promptly removed from the marketplace.

The following tips will help you reduce your risk of infection with E. coli or other food-borne illnesses:

Wash fresh fruits and vegetables before eating them, clean counters and cutting boards and wash your hands regularly.

Bullshit. Packaged leafy greens are not to be re-washed.