Giardia Outbreak Linked to El Tapatio Restaurant in Hopkins County

United States

Update July 21st, 2025:
Giardia Outbreak Expands Across Western Kentucky. Public health officials from the Hopkins County Health Department, the Kentucky Department for Public Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are continuing their investigation into the ongoing Giardia outbreak in Western Kentucky. As of July 21, 2025, there have been 66 laboratory-confirmed cases reported across Hopkins, Muhlenberg, and Webster Counties since May.

While the specific sources of the infections remain under investigation, a significant number of cases have reported dining at El Tapatio Mexican Cantina in Madisonville, Kentucky. The restaurant has been fully cooperating with health authorities. Environmental sampling and inspections are ongoing to identify all potential sources of exposure.

Source: www.facebook.com/MuhlenbergCountyHealthDepartment/posts/please-shareplease-see-the-below-kentucky-health-alert-regarding-a-giardia-outbr/1131295782362700/


Update July 11th, 2025:
Health officials have identified a significant connection between the Giardia outbreak and El Tapatio restaurant in Hopkins County, with over 50% of reported cases linked to the location. In response, county and state environmental staff have visited the restaurant to collect samples and provide food safety training. During the inspection, a temperature issue was found in the walk-in refrigerator, prompting the disposal of food and a temporary closure of the restaurant for maintenance and corrective measures. El Tapatio is cooperating fully with the Health Department.

At this time, there is no concern regarding the county’s treated drinking water, which is not considered a likely source for Giardia transmission. Investigations are ongoing to identify any additional potential sources. Residents experiencing diarrhea are urged to seek medical care and avoid working in food service, daycare, or healthcare roles until they have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours. Good hand hygiene remains essential for preventing the spread.

Source: Hopkins County Health Department


July 7th, 2025:
Hopkins County Health Department has reported an outbreak of Giardia, a parasitic infection, affecting 15 residents in the area. The outbreak, which causes diarrhea, has been identified in Hopkins County, Kentucky. Health officials are working to determine the source of the infection.

The outbreak is being closely monitored by epidemiology nurses from the Hopkins County Health Department, alongside state regional and state epidemiology departments. Giardia is commonly transmitted through contaminated water sources such as lakes, pools, or streams, and can also spread via unwashed hands that have come into contact with food or surfaces after bathroom use. As of now, no conclusive evidence has been found regarding the specific source of this outbreak, but investigations are ongoing.

The issue was discovered when several individuals in Hopkins County reported symptoms consistent with Giardia infection. Health officials began tracking these cases and identified a pattern that suggested a localized outbreak. The health department is actively searching for commonalities among the cases to pinpoint the source and prevent further spread. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

If you or a loved one are harmed or experiencing any symptoms, it is important to report it. Reporting can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and enable better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: www.hopkinscohealthdept.com/