Child death linked to listeriosis infection

A northern Manitoba community is in mourning after a six-week-old baby girl died from listeriosis earlier this week.

"When you hear news like that's there's shock, disbelief and sadness for the family," said Jim Moore, chief for Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (Nelson House).

The young baby, Alexiss Matilda Carlada McDonald-Moose, and her family are from Nelson House.

On Thursday, health officials said it was too early to determine if the infant's death is linked to the recent deadly outbreak of listeriosis that has caused 18 deaths and was traced to a Maple Leaf Foods processing plant in Toronto.

SYMPTOMS




Moore said the local government responded immediately after learning of the listeriosis Wednesday, broadcasting announcements on local radio and taking other steps.

"We went house to house with our staff and asked if we could assist people," said Moore.

Community officials notified residents in all of the area's 428 households, said Moore, telling them about listeriosis symptoms to watch out for and helping to inspect fridges for any recalled meat products.

Five households in Nelson House, located about 850 km north of Winnipeg, were found to have recalled meats, including the home where Alexiss lived, said Moore. The meat found there has been sent to be tested for listeria bacteria, said Moore.

UNDERLYING CONDITION

On Thursday, health officials said the infant, who died Sept. 17, had a suspected underlying medical condition which may have made her more prone to severe symptoms caused by the listeria bacteria.

A funeral is planned for Alexiss for Monday, said Moore.

Dr. Joel Kettner, Manitoba's chief medical officer, said infants -- who are unlikely to be fed processed meat -- can potentially contract listeriosis from their mother even while still in the womb.

People are "gravely concerned" listeriosis could still strike more Nelson House residents since it can sometimes take weeks for symptoms to appear, said Moore.

He also voiced concerns that other First Nations in remote locations may not have up-to-date information about listeriosis, which is caused by an infection in the blood or spinal fluid that may trigger symptoms such as high fever and considerable weakness.