Primary source of listeriosis outbreak in S. Africa still unknown

CAPE TOWN, March 28 (Xinhua) -- The South African government admitted on Wednesday that the primary source of the listeriosis outbreak that has killed dozens of people is still unknown.

This was revealed by government officials who briefed MPs on the progress that has been made to contain the further spread of the listeria bacteria.

Earlier, the government had named two food processing factories - Rainbow and Enterprise - as the source of the listeriosis outbreak.

But at Wednesday's question session in Parliament, a team of government officials from the departments of health, trade and industry and agriculture, forestry and fisheries said Rainbow and Enterprise factories are a source but not the primary source of the outbreak.

The outbreak which broke out early last year has claimed more than 180 lives in the country where there are over 900 more confirmed cases. It is believed to be the world's largest listeriosis outbreak.

It was also revealed that the country currently has a major shortage of environmental health practitioners at municipal levels.

MPs urged the government to make urgent plans to prevent further loss of life.

These include the urgent adoption of interim norms and standards to ensure that the outbreak is contained and industries can be reopened against these standards; permanent regulations for all animal products and the processed food industry; permanent standards and regulations for trade, agriculture and other food industries as well as proper mechanisms for testing of live animals and animal products.

MPs also called for the establishment of an independent body to regulate and monitor food safety and security in the country, as there are currently too many bodies with no specific mandate.

"It is now apparent that the government seems to be blaming bureaucratic processes and has opted for prematurely scapegoating Enterprise and Rainbow because it does not have proper emergency plans in place to contain this outbreak," said Patricia Kopane, an MP from the Opposition Democratic Alliance (DA).

Listeriosis is a serious, but treatable and preventable disease caused by the bacterium, listeria monocytogenes, which can be found in soil, water and vegetation. Animal products and fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables can be contaminated from these sources.

Symptoms from the food-borne disease include diarrhea, fever, general body pains, vomiting and weakness. Enditem