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The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Canada Safeway Limited are warning the public not to serve or consume various store-made and Signature Café brand salads described below because these products may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.

This recall is being initiated as these salads may contain a ready-to-eat romaine-based salad recalled by Fresh Express Incorporated, California, United States. There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these salads.

The Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) released yesterday by Statistics Canada shows that B.C. continues to lead or be highly ranked in many healthy living categories compared to other jurisdictions, re-affirming the province as the healthiest population in Canada, announced Healthy Living and Sport Minister Ida Chong. 

“This is the second time in a month that a national health report has recognized B.C.’s leadership in healthy living, supported by statistics that show we are truly the healthiest population in Canada,” said Chong. “We are pleased to see that the latest data from the Canadian Community Health Survey finds that British Columbians are the most physically active, have the lowest smoking rate and self-reported obesity rates and that we are the second-highest consumers of fruits and vegetables in Canada.” 

Health Canada is reminding Canadians to take steps to prevent cross-contamination of foods when shopping using reusable grocery bags and bins.

West Nile virus arrived in BC in 2009, so Interior Health is reminding residents to take extra precautions against mosquito bites this summer. 

In 2009, there were two residents of the Interior who contracted West Nile virus in the south Okanagan. Several mosquito traps confirmed the presence of the virus in the south Okanagan.  Three horses from the Okanagan and south Fraser Valley were also found with the disease.  A third resident of the Interior contracted the disease while travelling outside the province.   

It doesn't matter whether your idea of relaxing means a mocktail or cocktail. The fresh taste of home-grown herbs added to your favourite summer beverage will make your lips smack with every sip.

Clip some fresh mint for your cranberry drink or add two sprigs of cilantro to your Mojito. The crowning touch of taste is best when it comes from the really fresh herbs you've just picked from your backyard garden or patio container.

(Sweet Basil shown here.)

BC researchers collaborate on international Interphone study on mobile phone use and brain cancer risk

Research published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, from the international Interphone Study Group, provides insight into mobile phone use and brain cancer. Senior Scientist Mary McBride of the BC Cancer Agency, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, led the B.C. arm of the study, which did not find an increased likelihood amongst those who have used a mobile phone for 10 years or longer. The results focus on glioma and meningioma, two serious brain tumours. 

Barbecue season has begun and the Government of Canada would like to remind Canadians of steps they can take to avoid foodborne illness caused by bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.

Defeat is not an option 

I have read stories of the many amazing accounts of people who were faced with a challenge to win against all odds and to conquer the unconquerable---and they conquered. In every case, the people involved refused to accept defeat as an option. In each heart was activated the power of faith and determination that would not let them quit. 

Research has shown a direct link between the health of our mouths and our general health. Periodontal (gum) disease may increase adult risk of diseases such as heart, stroke, diabetes and respiratory diseases. Tooth and gum disease and is one of the most common dental problems of older adults.

Interior Health is asking healthcare professionals and the public to be alert for the signs and symptoms of measles, after three people in the region were diagnosed with the disease in the last 10 days.