Ground beef to blame in the outbreak of E. Coli makes sick more than 100 years, according to the CDC

More than 100 people became ill from an outbreak of E. Coli which, according to federal health officials, is tied to ground beef.

A total of 109 people in six states were infected with the strain Escherichia coli O103. No deaths or cases of kidney failure have been reported, but 17 have been hospitalized, the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention announced Friday.

The infections date back to March, but the common cause of these diseases was previously unknown. The CDC said health officials were working to find a supplier, distributor or joint brand of ground beef.

Kentucky and Tennessee recorded the highest number of cases, with 54 and 28 respectively. The other states involved are Indiana, Georgia, Ohio and Virginia, says the CDC.

Infected people have eaten beef at home and in restaurants, but the CDC does not recommend all consumers avoid beef, nor do all restaurants or retailers not serve it or sell it.

E. coli infections can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting for about five to seven days. In severe cases, patients may present with haemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure.

The CDC recommends washing hands and kitchenware, handling raw meat carefully, and cooking it thoroughly to prevent infection.

More on the epidemic:

April 10th: Five-State E. coli outbreak spreads and gets sick 96 to 24 times more than CDC's initial report

April 5th: E. coli makes 72 people sick in 5 states and puts 8 in the hospital

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