Wendy’s Identified as Suspected Source of E. coli Outbreak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to investigate an ongoing outbreak of E. coli. While a “specific food has not yet been confirmed as the source of this outbreak . . . many sick people reported eating burgers and sandwiches with romaine lettuce at Wendy’s restaurants before getting sick,” the CDC announced. The joint investigation includes multiple state public health departments, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS).
To date, public health investigators have confirmed 37 cases across four states. Ohio reports the most confirmed cases, with 19, with Michigan following close behind. That state confirms 15 cases. Additionally, Pennsylvania confirms one cases, and Indiana reports one confirmed case. Over the span of two days (August 16-August 18), officials confirmed an eight additional eight outbreak cases, a remarkable increase over a short period of time.
At least ten people required hospitalization due to the severity of their illnesses. Among that group, three people developed a severe complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure. Based on available evidence, romaine lettuce served at Wendy’s restaurants in that region appears to be the source. As a result, “Wendy’s is taking the precautionary measure of removing the romaine lettuce being used in sandwiches from restaurants in the region.”
About E. coli Infection
Symptoms of E. coli infection vary from person to person. Generally, symptoms include diarrhea (sometimes bloody), acute stomach cramping, and vomiting. Some infected individuals develop a fever (generally under 101 degrees Fahrenheit).
While symptoms generally begin three to four days after consuming contaminated food or water, some people fall ill as soon as one day or as late as 10 days after exposure. Symptoms generally resolve within five to seven days of onset.