Have you thrown away the polony together with all the other processed cold meats out of your refrigerator yet? If not, what are you waiting for? You might die from listeriosis.
On 4 March 2018, the Department of Health announced the listeriosis outbreak strain known as ST6 which has been discovered to be from Enterprise Foods production facility in Polokwane and Rainbow Chicken in Free State.
What is Listeriosis?
This is a food borne disease caused by the Listeria monocytogenes bacteria which can be treated and is preventable. It is widely distributed in nature and can be found in soil, water and vegetation.
Are You at Risk? If you’re:
- A pregnant woman
- A child
- An elderly
- You have a weak immune system (people living with HIV, diabetes, cancer, chronic liver or kidney disease)
How do you know if you have it? If you experience the following symptoms;
- Muscles aches
- Fever
- Headache
- Convulsion
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
Has anyone been affected?
By 5 March 2018, over 940 cases have been reported and 180 people have already passed away.
Although it seems two brands are the main source of the disease, it is highly recommended by Shangazine to avoid eating polony, viennas, sausages and other cold meats from most familiar brands. Just in case!
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