Minnesota Illness Linked To Romaine Lettuce E. coli Outbreak

Minneapolis MN

22 November, 2019

8:18 PM

Description

MINNESOTA — Health officials are warning consumers to not eat romaine lettuce from the Salinas growing region of California because it has been linked to serious illnesses from E. coli O157 bacteria. One case of E. coli infection in a Minnesota resident, who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and is hospitalized, has recently been identified and linked to the multi-state outbreak. Nationally, there are 40 cases from 16 states; 65 percent are female, according to a news release. Cases in the national E. coli outbreak range in people from ages 3 to 89 years. Currently, illness onset dates range from Sept. 4 through Nov. 10, but additional cases are under investigation. Twenty-eight cases were hospitalized, and five developed HUS, a potentially fatal complication that can include kidney failure and other severe problems. The Minnesota case interviewed by public health investigators reported eating romaine lettuce. The investigation to identify a specific source is ongoing. Health officials warn people not to eat, buy, or sell romaine lettuce from the Salinas growing region. Check your refrigerator for romaine lettuce that may have been grown in the Salinas region. If you have it, throw it out. Most romaine products are labeled with a harvest location, but if you don't know where the romaine lettuce was grown, don't eat or buy it. Symptoms of this illness typically include stomach cramps and diarrhea, often with bloody stools, but only a low-grade or no fever. People typically become ill two to five days after exposure, but this period can range from one to eight days. Most people recover in five to 10 days. However, infections sometimes lead to HUS. Those most at risk of developing complications from E. coli include children younger than 10, older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Diarrhea associated with the infections should not be treated with antibiotics, as this practice might promote the development of HUS. Anyone who believes they may have developed an E. coli O157 infection should contact their health care provider. Approximately 120 cases of E. coli O157 infection are reported each year in Minnesota.