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Rotavirus and E. Coli outbreaks in Northeastern Alabama
3 years ago •source alabamapublichealth.gov
Alabama, United States
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is investigating 4 cases of E. coli O157:H7 and 2 cases of Rotavirus in younger children in Northeastern Alabama. As of this date, ADPH did not announce a source of the outbreak, the investigation is ongoing.To reduce the risk of E. coli O157:H7 and other gastrointestinal illnesses, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends:
- WASH YOUR HANDS thoroughly after using the bathroom or changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.
- WASH YOUR HANDS after contact with animals or their environments (at farms, petting zoos, fairs, even your own back yard).
- COOK meats thoroughly. Ground beef and meat that has been needle-tenderized should be cooked to a temperature of at least 160 degrees F/70 degrees C. It is best to use a thermometer as color is not a very reliable indicator of "doneness."
- AVOID raw milk, unpasteurized dairy products and unpasteurized juices (like fresh apple cider).
- AVOID swallowing water when swimming or playing in lakes, ponds, streams, swimming pools and backyard "kiddie" pools.
- PREVENT cross contamination in food preparation areas by thoroughly washing hands, counters, cutting boards and utensils after they touch raw meat.
In case you are experiencing E. coli symptoms such as watery diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting; stomach cramps; and mild fever or Rotavirus symptoms, such as severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and/or abdominal pain, 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.
Source: www.alabamapublichealth.gov/blog/2022/04/nr14.html
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