Canada Listeriosis Death Toll Climbs to 20

The latest death occurred in Ontario, where 15 of the deaths have been reported, the Public Health Agency of Canada said in a news release.

    Two deaths occurred in the western province of British Columbia with one each in Alberta, Quebec and New Brunswick.

    The health agency said six other deaths under investigation may also result from the outbreak.

Listeria monocytogenes can be found in unpasteurized dairy products, raw vegetables and meats, and processed foods, including deli meats and hot dogs. Ingesting the bacteria can cause serious illness, including brain and blood infections that can lead to death. The elderly, infants and people with compromised immune systems are the most vulnerable.