Officials from the First Nations Health Authority and Island Health have confirmed what many suspected following a rare, small outbreak of cholera on Vancouver Island.
Island Health said that herring eggs and water samples collected from the areas of French Creek and Qualicum Bay have tested positive for vibrio cholerae bacteria after several people contracted the illness.
There have been no further confirmed cases of infection since late March, when up to four people contracted cholera after eating herring eggs harvested from the affected areas.
Island Health says it's currently unknown whether the confirmation of cholera-causing bacteria in the area will affect future harvesting of herring eggs.
An investigation into the infections is ongoing and additional information will be provided when it's available, Island Health said.
The organization is recommending those who have harvested herring eggs from French Creek and Qualicum Bay dispose of them in a secure garbage can and avoid feeding them to pets or animals.
While cholera infection is rarely seen in developed countries, Island Health says contracting viruses and bacteria is a known risk of eating raw seafood.
Symptoms of cholera include mild to severe nausea, vomiting and watery diarrhea that can lead to severe dehydration – though Island Health says most infections are either asymptomatic or only result in mild diarrhea.
The bacteria can be passed from infected people even if they aren't displaying symptoms.
A sanitary shellfish closure is also in effect for bivalves in French Creek and Qualicum Bay.
