Posted on 11/01/2009 9:21:21 PM PST by george76
VICTORIAN health authorities have renewed their warnings over links between semi-dried tomatoes and an outbreak of hepatitis A ...
"Because the incubation period for hepatitis A could be as long as two months, trying to get people who fell ill to accurately pin down what and where they actually ate this product can be difficult," Dr Carnie said.
Bottled semi-dried tomatoes in supermarkets were pasteurised and considered safe along with any of the cooked product such as in pizzas or quiches.
The greatest risk would appear to be at restaurants and cafes, where semi-dried tomatoes are served in foods such as salads and sandwiches.
Hepatitis A involves inflammation of the liver and is spread when traces of faecal matter containing the virus contaminates hands, objects, water or food and is then taken in through the mouth.
Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, fever and chills and jaundice.
(Excerpt) Read more at theaustralian.news.com.au ...
Have heard this is an increasing problem in the Southwest US as well. Gee, I wonder why that is? /s
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