There has been an increase in listeriosis cases in Ontario this year, and two people have died, the provincial health ministry announced Friday.

On average, Ontario expects to see an average of 40 reported cases of listeriosis per year, and about eight by March.

Between Jan. 1 and March 11 this year, there have been 14 reported cases, said Dr. Arlene King, Ontario's chief medical officer.

"There is a strong network of federal and provincial agencies that are working diligently to minimize the risk of any more incidents of this food-borne illness. We will keep the public informed of any new developments in our investigation," said King.

So far, only 10 of the 14 reported cases have been investigated. Aside from the two deaths, seven people were hospitalized.

At least two of the non-fatal cases have been linked to recently recalled ham and salami products from Toronto-based company Siena Foods. Both of those patients are from Toronto.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is warning consumers that Siena-brand Prosciutto Cotto Cooked Ham products may have been contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. These products would have been sold to consumers after Jan. 11. in delicatessens, and grocery and speciality food stores in Ontario, Quebec and Alberta.

King is also warning people not to consume Siena-brand mild Cacciatore Salami, which was recalled in December 2009, and may be linked to the recent rash of illnesses.

Siena Foods is voluntarily recalling the affected food while the CIFA investigates the outbreak.

Consumers who fear they may have consumed the tainted food are urged to contact their local retailers. The ham would have been sold in large wholesale packages, with best before dates of March 8 and March 22, 2010. The salami would have a best before date of May 4, 2010.