E. coli Outbreak Shuts Down Daycare in Blackfalds, Alberta
A daycare in central Alberta has been temporarily shut down due to an E. coli outbreak. Alberta Health Services is investigating the outbreak and working with the daycare to reduce the chance of further transmission.
Alberta Health says a child who attended the Aspen Lakes Discovery Centre in Blackfalds tested positive for Shiga-toxin producing E. coli on Friday. Later that day, the province declared an outbreak of Shiga-toxin producing E. coli, which can cause serious complications in some people.
The agency doesn’t yet know the root cause of the infection and is following up with 136 children and 25 staff considered to have been exposed. As of Aug. 27 at 3 p.m., health officials say a total of three children and one staff member who attended the facility have tested positive for STEC.
AHS Investigates Outbreak, Reviews Protocols
AHS Environmental Public Health says it is leading the investigation into the outbreak and working with the facility to reduce the chance of further transmission. This includes reviewing cleaning, sanitation and isolation protocols, say government officials. AHS says it remains in close contact with those affected by this outbreak.
Officials say they are hoping for a swift recovery of all those affected by the situation.
Government officials say an active investigation is underway, so no further information can be shared at this time.
Echoes of 2023 E. coli Outbreak
Almost a year ago, an E. coli outbreak hit several Calgary daycares that were served meat loaf out of a central kitchen operated by Fueling Minds, leading to hundreds of infections. That outbreak led to a provincial commission that found changes were necessary in the child-care system to prevent a similar massive outbreak from occurring in the future.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said the outbreak, the largest in Alberta’s history, had a “devastating impact on families.” “Last fall, families in Calgary experienced a living nightmare,” Smith said on July 29 upon the release of the review panel’s report, which called for improvement in the culture of food safety, improved food inspection and better integration of various systems.
Some recommendations will require legislative changes, while others require only process changes, which can occur quicker. The outbreak that sparked the seven-month review was connected to a central kitchen used by the daycares and is believed to have begun from meat loaf served during lunch on Aug. 29, 2023. Officials were unable to confirm the meat loaf as a definitive cause because all the food had been either consumed or thrown away before sampling could take place.
Lessons Learned and Future Steps
The recent E. coli outbreak in Blackfalds highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety of children in childcare settings. This event serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with E. coli infections and the need for stringent protocols to prevent their spread.
While the investigation into the outbreak is ongoing, it is crucial that both childcare providers and parents prioritize hygiene and sanitation practices to minimize the risk of transmission. This includes proper handwashing, thorough cleaning of surfaces and utensils, and limiting contact with individuals who may be experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection.
As health officials continue to investigate the outbreak, it is essential to remain informed and adhere to their guidance. This includes staying updated on any new developments or recommendations regarding the situation, such as potential exposure to the outbreak and necessary precautions to take.
The outbreak in Blackfalds underscores the need for ongoing collaboration between healthcare professionals, childcare providers, and parents to protect the health and well-being of children. By working together, we can ensure that childcare settings remain safe and healthy environments for all.
