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An investigation is underway after seven children in Washington state were recently infected with toxin-producing E. coli, public health officials said on Wednesday.
All seven children developed symptoms consistent with E. coli producing the Shiga toxin – also known as STEC.
At least six had to be hospitalized, including one recovering from developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening condition that affects the kidneys. A second child is also suspected of having HUS, which typically develops in 5% to 10% of people diagnosed with a STEC infection, according to King County Public Health.
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The children exhibited symptoms between April 17 and April 29 and cases were identified between April 22 and May 1, officials said. All of the children were under 14 and three were under five.
So far, an investigation has yet to find a clear link to specific foods, restaurants, or other common sources.
“Public health is conducting interviews with cases and their parents / guardians to help identify common exposures,” King County public health officials said. “We are also working with the Washington State Department of Health to complete further testing and to help identify possible related cases in other counties.”
According to health officials, STEC infection can occur from:
- Eat undercooked ground beef or unpasteurized milk, cheese and juice.
- Eat contaminated raw fruits, vegetables, sprouts and herbs.
- Drink water contaminated with animal feces.
- Direct contact with farm animals or their surrounding environment.
- Ready-to-eat foods contaminated by contact with raw beef or raw beef juices in the kitchen.
To reduce the risk of contracting STECs, officials say you should avoid eating high-risk foods and thoroughly cook all meat, especially ground beef. You should also wash your hands with soap and water before preparing and eating food, they added.
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Those with suspected infected STEC should not work in “food handling, patient care, or child care settings,” according to King County Public Health.
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“Sick children with suspected STEC infection should not go to daycare until they have seen a health care provider and tested for STEC infection, even if their illness is mild. “, noted the officials. “People with STEC infections who work or frequent these sensitive settings should be cleared by public health before returning.”
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