The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) is investigating an outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) linked to the University of Arkansas. To date, approximately 100 students have reported symptoms with some requiring hospitalization. This outbreak currently remains under investigation as the ADH now analyzes survey data
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collected from over 3,000 individuals throughout Northwest Arkansas. The objective is to pinpoint the source of this E. coli outbreak.
The outbreak appears to have started more than 10 days ago, based on the typical onset of E. coli-related symptoms which usually start 3 to 4 days after ingesting the bacteria. The university has ramped up cleaning and sanitizing efforts on campus to help curb the spread of the outbreak while reinforcing the importance of practicing good hygiene, especially hand washing. In addition, practice other general E. coli prevention practices including cooking meats thoroughly; washing fruits and vegetables well under water; avoiding cross contamination; avoiding raw milk, unpasteurized dairy products, and unpasteurized juices; and following the four steps to food safety when preparing food: clean, separate, cook, chill.
In case you are experiencing E. coli symptoms such as watery diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting; stomach cramps; and mild fever, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source:
news.uark.edu
