Belgians now also becoming ill as a result of eating blueberries from Albert Heijn

Reports are now also coming in of people in Belgium being infected by hepatitis A after eating blueberries from the Albert Heijn. The Vlaamse Departement Zorg has said that there are four such cases in the country, broadcaster VRT reported. They had all eaten the berries frequently. Albert Heijn has 80 supermarkets in Flanders, and the blueberries in question were also on the shelves there. Albert Heijn recalled the berries at the beginning of this week because the frozen product was infected with hepatitis A.

At least 12 people fell ill due to the virus. The supermarket chain had received 31 reports of people falling ill as a result of eating the blueberries on Wednesday evening. However, the National Institute for Public Health (RIVM) is predicting that hundreds of people have been infected by it in the Netherlands. Two people were taken to the hospital.

"The number of sick reports is being tracked by the RIVM. We have now had 3,000 customer contacts. Of these, 31 are from customers with complaints. We will talk to the customers who have reported to us in order to handle the report with the utmost care," said a spokesperson for Albert Heijn.

The spokeswoman also said there were a few damage reports. “For example, the use of the deductible for blood tests on the advice of the GP." The supermarket chain has put together a special team to help everybody affected by the issue. This team, which can be increased if needed, is ready to help clients “quickly, personally, and with understanding.”

Albert Heijn did not provide any information about the amounts of money for possible claims.