Report by
Outbreak
E. coli O157:H7 (STEC) outbreak in King County, WA - Unknown source
3 years ago •source kingcounty.gov
Washington, United States
Seattle & King County Public Health announced that they are investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 (also known as STEC) in the County. Between October 4 – 16, 2022, 3 people from 3 separate households reported developing one or more symptoms consistent with STEC. Cases had illness onset dates from September 21 – October 12, 2022. To date, no source has been identified. The investigation is ongoing.2 of the 3 ill people report eating dishes that were prepared with raw or undercooked beef but Public Health cannot rule out other possible sources at this time. Confirmed cases have been linked through genetic fingerprinting results (whole genome sequencing) which indicate that they have the same genetic strain, meaning they likely have a common source of infection.
Public Health is working with the (USDA and Washington State Department of Health to complete further testing, to identify related cases in other counties, and to begin traceback of products in common. Traceback is used to identify points of contamination in the food supply chain.
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: kingcounty.gov/depts/health/communicable-diseases/disease-control/outbreak/unknown-source-nov-2022.aspx
4
Comments
Comment