Massachusetts Investigating Six E. Coli Cases
According to The Boston Channel, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is investigating six related cases of E. coli O157:H7. The source of contamination has not yet been identified, but officials think the cases may be linked to beef products. At least five of the ill patients were hospitalized and reported becoming ill between July 10 and July 16. Officials also say that the strain affecting the individuals seems to be the same strain affecting 20 patients from other states. However, there is no information confirming a match among the six Massachusetts patients or those from other states at this time.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is working with the USDA to investigate the source of contamination. After working on the cases over the weekend, no source has been identified, but officials are primarily investigating ground beef, and will be collecting samples from several stores. The Department of Public Health is reminding the public to consume only ground beef that is fully cooked (to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit). E. coli O157:H7 can cause a variety of symptoms and can lead to a deadly type of kidney failure known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).
