New Law Blogs

Indiana Warns Against E. Coli Threat

By Pritzker | Ruohonen

 Health officials have warned residents of Delaware County, Indiana, that the county has had 8 cases of E. coli O157:H7 infection since July.   Health officials have been unable to identify the source or sources of the infections.  Interviews of those sickened has not led to a common food or restaurant.  According to The Star Press,  the Delaware County Fair is being considered a possible target for investigation.

Animals at county fairs have been the source of a number of E. coli outbreaks.  Cattle, sheep and goats can harboring E. coli O157:H7 in their intestines.  If a human consumes even a small amount of contaminated animal fecal matter (poop), the human can contract an E. coli O157:H7 infection and become sick.  E. coli symptoms can include stomach cramping, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and can lead to a deadly form of kidney failure known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

When visiting a county fair or anyplace that has animals to pet, wash your hands after petting the animals.  Wash your hands again right before you eat.

Full post as published by Food Poisoning Law Blog on August 18, 2008 (boomark / email).