27 Scurvy Cases in Saskatchewan

What is Scurvy?

Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, a protein that is found in connective tissue. Collagen is found in the skin, bones, and blood vessels. Without enough vitamin C, collagen cannot be produced properly, and the body begins to break down.

Scurvy can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, swollen gums, bleeding gums, skin rashes, and impaired wound healing.

In severe cases, scurvy can be fatal.

What Caused the Outbreak of Scurvy in Saskatchewan?

The outbreak of scurvy in Saskatchewan was caused by a combination of factors, including:

• A lack of access to fresh fruits and vegetables
• A diet high in processed foods
• A lack of knowledge about the importance of vitamin C

The outbreak was particularly severe among people who lived in remote communities and did not have access to fresh produce.

How was the Outbreak Addressed?

The outbreak of scurvy in Saskatchewan was addressed by a number of measures, including:

• Providing access to fresh fruits and vegetables
• Educating people about the importance of vitamin C
• Providing vitamin C supplements to people at risk

These measures were successful in controlling the outbreak of scurvy in Saskatchewan.

How Can Scurvy Be Prevented?

Scurvy can be prevented by eating a diet that is rich in vitamin C. Good sources of vitamin C include:

• Citrus fruits
• Berries
• Cruciferous vegetables
• Leafy greens

It is also important to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can interfere with the absorption of vitamin C.

Conclusion

Scurvy is a serious disease that can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin C. The outbreak of scurvy in Saskatchewan was caused by a combination of factors, including a lack of access to fresh fruits and vegetables, a diet high in processed foods, and a lack of knowledge about the importance of vitamin C. The outbreak was addressed by a number of measures, including providing access to fresh fruits and vegetables, educating people about the importance of vitamin C, and providing vitamin C supplements to people at risk. These measures were successful in controlling the outbreak of scurvy in Saskatchewan.

Scurvy can be prevented by eating a diet that is rich in vitamin C. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, cruciferous vegetables, and leafy greens. It is also important to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can interfere with the absorption of vitamin C.