Increase in E. coli incidents traced back to a restaurant in the Calgary region

Outbreak of E. coli and Amoebiasis at Saskatoon Farm Near Calgary Continues

Since July 1, 2025, there has been a significant increase in cases of E. coli and Entamoeba histolytica infections linked to the Saskatoon Farm restaurant near Calgary, Canada. As of August 18, 2025, Alberta Health Services (AHS) reported 107 probable cases of E. coli, with approximately 70 of these also infected with Entamoeba histolytica.

The outbreak, which occurred between July 1 and 18, 2025, has been linked primarily to the farm’s water supply. Contaminated original cisterns, which have since been removed, are believed to be the cause of the outbreak.

Four hospitalizations have been confirmed, with three patients discharged. The number of hospitalizations has not increased.

Health Canada states that people infected with E. coli bacteria can take up to three weeks before they start to show symptoms, while those infected with the parasite Entamoeba histolytica can take much longer, sometimes months, before they show symptoms.

The Saskatoon Farm serves as the location where the E. coli cases and Entamoeba histolytica cases occurred. The farm, a popular Calgary-area restaurant located about 20 minutes southeast of the city, was ordered closed by AHS inspectors on July 23. The facility has since undergone comprehensive remediation, including water system upgrades, facility cleaning, and staff illness screening, and was permitted to reopen recently.

However, the farm's u-pick fields for Saskatoon berries, sour cherries, and other fruits and vegetables remain open. The farm has switched to a different water source, but the restaurant remains closed.

Public health authorities continue to encourage anyone who consumed food, beverages, or water at the premises between July 1 and 18 to seek medical assessment and testing due to potential exposure. Other pathogens such as norovirus and rotavirus have been identified in laboratory tests, but their link to the Saskatoon Farm is yet to be determined.

Norovirus and rotavirus are commonly associated with gastrointestinal illnesses. If infected with Entamoeba histolytica, the illness can develop into a severe gastrointestinal illness called amoebiasis, which can potentially cause complications in the liver, lungs, or brain.

AHS believes E. coli and amoebiasis are the causes of the Saskatoon Farm illness. No specific food, water, or beverage at the Saskatoon Farm has been identified as the source of the E. coli and Entamoeba histolytica outbreak.

The Saskatoon Farm has been cooperating with AHS throughout the investigation and remediation process. The farm has taken steps to ensure the safety of its patrons and has implemented measures to prevent future outbreaks.

For more information on the Saskatoon Farm outbreak, please visit the Alberta Health Services website or contact your local health authority.