Description of the situation
30 May 2000
Disease Outbreak Reported
The Public Health Unit for the town of Walkerton, Ontario (population 5000) has reported an outbreak of E.coli O157. To date, 5 people have died and 27 are hospitalized. Exposure to E. coli is believed to have occurred between 12-15 May. Tests have confirmed E. coli contamination in the Walkerton water supply system. On 21 May, the Public Health Unit issued a "Boil Water Order" to the residents of Walkerton which is still in effect.
Investigations are underway by provincial and federal health and environmental authorities.