The Chief Public Health Office (CPHO) is working closely with the P.E.I International Shellfish Festival organizers to manage a recent gastrointestinal illness outbreak associated with the event.
The event was held from September 19 to 22.
officials stated more than 550 attendees who experienced symptoms participated in an online survey detailing the onset and duration of their illness, as well as the foods they consumed.
Among those affected, four individuals sought emergency care, and one required hospitalization. Public health inspectors have reached out to staff members who worked at the event for further investigation.
In these circumstances, the CPHO examines various pathogens typically associated with gastrointestinal illnesses, such as norovirus, vibriosis, salmonella, and marine biotoxins. Currently, norovirus has been detected in stool samples from some of the symptomatic individuals who dined at the festival.
Norovirus can be transmitted by:
- Consuming norovirus-contaminated food or drink
- Touching norovirus-contaminated surfaces and then putting fingers in the mouth can spread the virus
- Direct contact with a norovirus-infected person, like caring for them or sharing food/utensils, can spread the virus
Following the investigation, the Chief Public Health Officer has outlined six recommendations that address multiple aspects to help lower the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses in future events:
- Health inspections before and during the festival increased
- Enhanced sanitation of food prep areas and touch surfaces reduces cross-contamination risks
- Implement a policy to prevent sick staff and food handlers from working and designate someone to daily check for illness among the staff
- Make hand washing stations visible in all washrooms and implement a policy to regularly check and refill them during the event
- Collaborate with a sanitation company to daily decontaminate common touch surfaces in washrooms
- Store prepared food samples in cold storage for at least 48 hours post-event
The organizers of the PEI International Shellfish Festival stated they will continue to actively implement recommendations of the CPHO.
