Last fall, 167 people in 16 states became infected with E. coli. All consumed infected romaine lettuce grown in Salinas, California. From September through December, out of the 167 people infected 85 needed to go to the hospital. Also, 15 developed a syndrome of kidney failure.
About E. coli
E. coli are bacteria that normally live in the intestines of healthy people and animals. While most strains are harmless, the one found in recent patients, 0157: H7, is a specific strain that can cause serious illness. Symptoms of E.Coli typically begin two to eight days after consuming the bacteria, although most patients become ill three or four days after consumption. These symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Most people recover in five to seven days. However, those most at risk include the very young, the very old, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
E. coli Romaine Outbreak Cause
The CDC identified the outbreak to the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. This is the most common form in the United States. However, by January, consumers could resume eating romaine again from Salinas. The FDA found that runoff from nearby cattle was responsible for tainting lettuce farms.
After the deadly and expansive E. coli outbreak in 2006, a coalition formed to monthly test water sources. Also, the group banned irrigation with surface water during final stages of cultivation.
Key Findings
The report on the 2019 romaine outbreak cause found that each of the three outbreaks involved different strains of E. coli 0157:H7. There was a common grower with multiple ranches and fields that supplied romaine to multiple businesses. This grower was responsible for all three outbreaks. Federal agencies found the strain in two brands of salad bags with romaine. Researchers linked the strain in romaine to a fecal-soil sample taken from a cattle grate less than two miles upslope from a farm.
Get Legal Help
E. Coli is bacteria that can cause serious, sometimes fatal, infections in humans. The CDC estimates the bacteria causes 2,000 hospitalizations each year. Also, 10% go on to develop more serious complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS can cause kidney failure, damage to the central nervous system, and ultimately death.
This is why it is important to seek representation if you are a victim of the multistate E.Coli outbreak or any foodborne contamination. Therefore, an experienced attorney like those at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm can help you receive compensation for your losses. We have over 20 years representing injured consumers and will use every avenue to get you justice.