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A case of E. coli infection in Saskatchewan has been linked to a multi-province recall of frozen beef burgers. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued a recall of certain frozen beef burgers distributed in several provinces, including Saskatchewan and Manitoba, after the products caused illnesses due to E. coli infection. The Saskatchewan case occurred recently in Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region and was likely contracted prior to the recall. The individual affected is recovering. Frozen beef burgers included in the recall (Gourmet Meat Shoppe and The Butcher's Cut, described later in this article) should either be returned to the location of purchase or discarded. Consumers are reminded to take simple steps to reduce their risk of E. coli infection. 'All meat should be cooked thoroughly, and anyone handling or preparing food should thoroughly wash their hands first,' Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said. Symptoms of E. coli infection include severe abdominal pain, watery or bloody diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and headaches. Symptoms usually appear within three to four days but can occur up to 10 days later and last five to ten days. People most at risk of developing serious complications from E. coli are pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, young children and the elderly. Those with severe or prolonged symptoms should see a doctor or go to an emergency department. The recalled products include the 'Big & Juicy Burger' and 'Prime Rib Burger' products from The Gourmet Meat Shoppe with 'best before' dates of Aug. 14, 2013 and UPC codes of 0 58200 10650 3 or 0 58200 10733 3. It also includes the 'Pure Beef Patties - 10 Patties,' 'Pure Beef Patties - 20 Patties' and 'Pure Beef Patties - 40 patties' products from The Butcher's Cut with 'best before' dates of Aug. 14, 2013 and UPC codes of 0 58200 21604 2, 0 58200 21592 2 or 0 58200 21594 6. For more information, consumers may contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency at 1-800-442-2342. _ Compiled from Government of Saskatchewan and Canadian Food Inspection Agency news releases
