The Public Health Agency of Canada has reported that 105 individuals have been confirmed sick due to a salmonella outbreak associated with pistachio products. The agency's latest update, released on Wednesday, indicates that there have been 26 new cases since the previous report earlier this month. Among those affected, 16 people have been hospitalized, marking an increase of five since the outbreak began in early March. Illnesses have persisted into early September.

Since July, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued 26 recalls of various pistachio and pistachio-containing products. These recalls include certain brands of pistachio kernels, baklava, ice cream, and chocolate. The investigation has particularly focused on Dubai-style chocolate with pistachios, which gained attention on social media.

The Public Health Agency has noted that many more individuals may have contracted salmonella but did not report their illness. Symptoms of salmonella infection can include fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sudden headaches. While most people recover within a week, certain groups, including seniors, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, are at a higher risk for severe illness that may require hospitalization.

The youngest reported case involved a two-year-old, while the oldest was 95. Most infections have been reported in Quebec and Ontario, with additional cases in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick. Notably, 75 percent of the salmonella cases have been among females.

Health officials advise that individuals infected with salmonella should refrain from cooking for others to prevent further spread of the bacteria. A comprehensive list of recalled products is available on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's website. Consumers who possess these products are urged to dispose of them or return them.