Multiple types of produce identified in connection with cases of children infected with toxin-producing E. coli

KING COUNTY, Wash. — Public health workers said they have identified multiple types of fresh produce that may be connected to most of the cases of the seven children in King County who were infected with toxin-producing E. coli.

According to a release from Public Health - Seattle & King County, an investigation reveals that the fresh produce is mostly organic, but other possibilities cannot be ruled out.

Health officials said it is not clear if the victims share the same source of infection.

The children, all under 15, were infected with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli., also known as STEC. The cases were reported between April 22 and May 1.

Three of the children are under 5 years old.

All the children developed symptoms consistent with STEC including diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea and vomiting. One developed a serious kidney complication, and a second child is suspected to also have that complication.

Six of the cases so far have completed preliminary PCR testing, which showed that the kids were infected with the bacterial strain E. coli O157:H7.

Officials said that STEC can sometimes be found on fruits and vegetables and has been associated with outbreaks in the past. “You should always wash all fresh produce well before consuming.”

Although STEC and other foodborne infections occur throughout the year, officials said they may increase in frequency during the late spring and summer months.

Cox Media Group