In 1997, hundreds of elementary school children in Michigan contracted Hepatitis A from a contaminated strawberry dessert served in the school’s cafeteria. Immediate effects included vomiting, high fevers, body aches, headaches, and abdominal painting. Among the long-term effects: hair loss, fatigue and shingles.
While awareness of foodborne illness has risen in the last two decades, parents still need to remain vigilant about food safety for the children’s lunches – whether packed at home or purchased in the school cafeteria.