April 13, 2006

TORONTO - Dr. Sheela Basrur, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, today warned the public not to consume some cheese products made by the Upper Canada Cheese Company in Jordan Station.

Consumer and retailers, who may have any of two Upper Canada Cheese Company products, are being advised to discard them. These two cheese products are sold under the label of Niagara Gold (washed rind cheese) with a production date label up to and including Dec. 14, 2005; and Comfort Cream (white bloomy rind cheese) with a production date label up to and including Jan. 6, 2006.

The cheese products were sold in the Niagara Region and Greater Toronto Area.

This warning is based on an ongoing investigation that showed a link between the two identified Upper Canada Cheese Company products and several confirmed cases of food-borne illness caused by salmonella bacteria.

Nausea, fever, vomiting, stomach cramps and/or diarrhea are symptoms that would result from consuming cheese products contaminated with salmonella bacteria.

"Salmonella can cause serious illness, and can be life-threatening for the very young, elderly and those with weakened immune systems," Dr. Basrur said. "If you have Upper Canada Cheese Company products with the specified product date label in your fridge, throw them out. If you have eaten cheese at home or in a restaurant, and are experiencing these symptoms, contact your physician immediately."

Salmonella can spread from person-to-person. Meticulous hand washing is important to further prevent the spread of illness. If you have diarrhea, you shouldn't prepare food for others and should avoid contact with young children, elderly or sick people.

For further information :

Members of the general public : (416) 327-4327, or (800) 268-1154

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