This Tuesday, September 10, 2024, the prefecture of Indre-et-Loire reported five “probable cases of botulism” after the consumption of wild garlic pesto made in Tours.
Health and state services held a press conference at the Bretonneau hospital in Tours this Tuesday afternoon at 4 p.m. Authorities revealed that 600 potentially contaminated jars were being sought.
Investigators are trying to trace the customers of these artisanal preserves sold under the brand name Ô p’titsoignons, in particular the 200 who paid by bank card.
Shopping at events in Touraine
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All the recalled canned goods were purchased during festive events organized in Indre-et-Loire between April 2024 and last September (Plant Festival then Tomato Festival at the Château de la Bourdaisière in Montlouis-sur-Loire; Nature en fête at the Château de Cangé in Saint-Avertin; Garlic and Basil Fair in Tours).
A judicial investigation
Prefect Patrice Latron specified that a judicial inquiry had been opened: it would focus in particular on the producer’s workshop and the sterilization system. “It is too early to blame the producer” commented Prefect Patrice Latron.
Five people in intensive care
Five people are currently in intensive care at the Tours University Hospital. They are on artificial ventilation but conscious. They have been given botulinum antitoxin serum. They all shared the same birthday meal on Friday. Two couples came to the Loches hospital on Saturday, and one person alone on Sunday.
We will have to wait for the results of the analysis of the remains of the meal, carried out by the Pasteur Institute, to have confirmation that it is indeed botulism. These results are expected this Tuesday evening or Wednesday, September 11.
Disease Outbreak News
Botulism Outbreak in Indre-et-Loire: Understanding the Risks and Prevention Measures
A recent outbreak of botulism in Indre-et-Loire, France, has raised concerns about the dangers of this rare but serious condition. On September 10, 2024, the prefecture of Indre-et-Loire reported five “probable cases of botulism” after the consumption of wild garlic pesto made in Tours. The affected individuals had purchased the artisanal preserves, sold under the brand name Ô p’titsoignons, during festive events in Indre-et-Loire between April 2024 and September 2024.
What is Botulism?
Botulism is a rare but serious condition caused by bacteria that contaminate food or a wound [[2]]. It can lead to muscle weakness, paralysis, and even death if left untreated. In the case of foodborne botulism, the bacteria can be found in contaminated food, such as canned goods, meats, and fish [[2]].
The Investigation
In response to the outbreak, a judicial investigation has been opened to focus on the producer’s workshop and sterilization system [[1]]. Prefect Patrice Latron emphasized that it is too early to blame the producer, and authorities are working to trace the customers of the potentially contaminated jars, particularly the 200 who paid by bank card.
Prevention Measures
To prevent botulism, it is essential to handle and store food safely. This includes:
Cooking food thoroughly to kill bacteria
Avoiding cross-contamination of foods
Storing food in sealed containers at the correct temperature
Avoiding consumption of spoiled or expired food
* Washing hands regularly
Previous Cases of Botulism
Unfortunately, this is not the first case of botulism reported in recent years. In March 2023, a large travel-associated outbreak of iatrogenic botulism was detected in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and France [[3]]. Additionally, a tourist was hospitalized with botulism after eating tainted sardines at a wine bar in Bordeaux’s tourism district [[1]].
Conclusion
The recent outbreak of botulism in Indre-et-Loire serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and proper handling and storage techniques. By understanding the risks and prevention measures, we can reduce the likelihood of botulism cases and keep our communities safe. As the investigation continues, it is essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent further cases of botulism.
References:
Botulism outbreak 2024
Botulism Outbreak in Indre-et-Loire: Understanding the Risks and Prevention Measures
A recent outbreak of botulism in Indre-et-Loire, France, has raised concerns about the dangers of this rare but serious condition. On September 10, 2024, the prefecture of Indre-et-Loire reported five “probable cases of botulism” after the consumption of wild garlic pesto made in Tours. The affected individuals had purchased the artisanal preserves, sold under the brand name Ô p’titsoignons, during festive events in Indre-et-Loire between April 2024 and September 2024.
What is Botulism?
Botulism is a rare but serious condition caused by bacteria that contaminate food or a wound [[2]]. It can lead to muscle weakness, paralysis, and even death if left untreated. In the case of foodborne botulism, the bacteria can be found in contaminated food, such as canned goods, meats, and fish [[2]].
The Investigation
In response to the outbreak, a judicial investigation has been opened to focus on the producer’s workshop and steril
