NZ: Ministry refuses to confirm carrots, lettuces source of stomach bug

The Ministry for Primary Industries is refusing to confirm carrots and lettuce as the source of a stomach bug that's hit more than 100 people and put 38 in hospital.

Canterbury DHB Medical Officer of Health Alistair Humphrey told TV ONE's Breakfast programme this morning that bagged carrots and lettuces appear to be the origin of the infection, associated with the bacteria Yersinia pseudotuberculosis.

"Get rid of any old bags of carrots or lettuce left in your fridge over the last week or two," Dr Humphrey warned.

But MPI insists it's still working to determine the source of the outbreak.

A spokesman said at this stage, the source has not yet been identified, but Yersinia pseudotuberculosis outbreaks overseas have been linked to contaminated fresh vegetables and fruit, contaminated water and animal contact.

"We believe there is a credible link that food is the likely source, but it is too early to be certain about the source of this pathogen and direct people away from foods that have no proven risk for consumers," the spokesman said. "It is important to note that MPI's investigation is over a range of foods."

The ministry spokesman declined to clarify why MPI is working to determine the source of the outbreak when Dr Humphrey told ONE News that the source was from carrots and lettuce.

The spokesman told ONE News this afternoon: "We are going with the statement and that's all we're saying."

Yersinia pseudotuberculosis causes stomach cramps and can present symptoms that mimic appendicitis. Diarrhoea can occur but is rare. It has a 3 to 21 day incubation period.

While cases are reported each year, there has been an increase in cases, mainly in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland, but reports have also come from the Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Hawke's Bay and Otago/Southland.

There are a total of 101 confirmed cases and 41 suspected but yet to confirmed, nationwide. A total of 38 people have been hospitalised.

The ministry advised people to apply normal food safety practice. If it looks off or smells off, throw it out. Otherwise keep fresh food chilled and wash fruit and vegetables before eating.

Source: tvnz.co.nz