Cases of hemolytic-uremic syndrome linked to the consumption of Reblochon cheese produced by the Chabert company

Santé publique France and the National Reference Center for Escherichia coli (Institut Pasteur and Robert Debré Hospital, Paris) have identified seven cases of Escherichia coli infection, including six cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome, in children aged between 18 months and 3 years. Investigations conducted by Santé publique France have confirmed an epidemiological link between these cases and the consumption of whole raw-milk Reblochons produced at the Chabert company’s facility in Cruseilles (Haute-Savoie). Health authorities are fully mobilized to take all necessary measures to protect consumers.

Published on 14 May 2018

Test results for the seven children showed that the syndrome was caused by infection with a strain of Escherichia coli (E. coli) 026. Within a week of consuming contaminated food, this bacterium can cause diarrhea—sometimes bloody—abdominal pain, and vomiting. These symptoms may then progress (in 5 to 8% of cases), after about a week, to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe clinical form of Escherichia coli infection.

Following the traceability investigation, it was decided as a precaution to remove from sale and recall all whole raw-milk Reblochon cheeses manufactured at the Cruseilles site (health mark FR 74.096.050 CE) with a red casein label; lots beginning with "8CR") sold to date. Products manufactured at other Chabert sites (with a different health mark) are not affected by this alert.

To best address any questions consumers may have, Chabert has made the following phone number available: 0 800 94 52 35, from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Investigations are ongoing within the company and at the dairy farms that supply it to determine the exact source of the E. coli O26 contamination. Santé Publique France is also continuing surveillance to detect any new cases linked to this product.