E-coli epidemic in 10 states makes 196 patients and 28 hospitalized, health officials say



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The epidemic of E. Ground beef parcel has now sickened 196 people in 10 states, 19 more than the number of people registered since last month by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Of the patients, 28 people were hospitalized because of the outbreak, which according to health officials was linked to "many sources".

More than 165,000 pounds of ground beef recalled in the E. coli outbreak

At least two companies have recalled ground beef products, but officials have warned that contaminated food may still be in stores.

Grant Park Packing in Franklin Park, Illinois, recalled 53,200 pounds of raw ground beef products on April 24, the CDC announced. On April 23, Colorado Premium Foods in Carrollton, Georgia, recalled 113,424 pounds of this product.

The outbreak has affected residents of Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, Virginia and Tennessee. At least 49 people were reported to have been sick in Georgia, while another 69 people were reported to have been sick in Kentucky.

E. coli are bacteria present in the human and animal intestines.

Although most strains are harmless, some are pathogenic and can cause diseases, including stomach cramps and diarrhea, according to the CDC. The bacterium can be transmitted by water or contaminated food and sometimes by contact with other people and animals.

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If most people recover after several days with E. coli, some cases can be life threatening. This is especially true for pregnant women, newborns, older or older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Health officials recommend washing hands well, washing fruits and vegetables, cooking meat thoroughly and avoiding cross-contamination in food preparation areas to prevent illnesses caused by E. coli.

Madeline Farber of Fox News contributed to this report.

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