Petting Zoo Ecoli HUS Strikes Minnesota Boy, Age 3
A 3-year-old boy who was sickened by an E. coli O157:H7 infection after visiting an apple orchard and petting zoo in the greater area of Minneapolis-St. Paul has been released from the hospital after being treated for a life-threatening complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS.
Preliminary tests found E. coli O157:H7 bacteria in the feces of the petting zoo Llama. The sample's genetic fingerprint matched the strain of E. coli in the boy. The family has retained national food safety law firm Pritzker Olsen Attorneys to represent them.
Fred Pritzker, founder and president of the law firm, said he believes at least one other person who recently visited the orchard and petting zoo also contracted E. coli. Animals at the petting zoo include a goat, sheep, Llama, colt and mini-donkey. Families who have a loved one who became sick after visiting a Twin Cities area apple orchard and petting zoo should contact the firm by calling 1-888-377-8900 (Toll Free) or 612-338-0202.
The Minnesota Department of Health has seen an increase in the spread of pathogens at petting zoos and animal fairs. The department has reminded people of the microbiological dangers at these venues, saying that all animals can carry germs and pass infections to people. Animals of particular concern regarding transmission of intestinal disease are calves, lambs, goat kids, chicks, ducklings, reptiles and amphibians. Any ill animal also is a threat. Groups at high risk for infection include children under five, adults older than 60, pregnant women, cancer patients and others with compromised immune systems.
E. coli O157:H7 is one of the most common and most dangerous kinds of intestinal disease agents associated with animal contact at petting zoos. Pritzker, who also represents victims of an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak at this year's National Western Stock Show in Denver, said it is a well-known and preventable danger. In 2005, the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians issued a document entitled “Compendium of Measures to Prevent Disease Associated with Animals in Public Setting.” It was endorsed by a number of organizations including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The document was updated in 2009 and includes facility design standards to minimize infection risks -- including recommendations on adequate hand-washing stations.
"Despite the frequency and severity of these kinds of cases, it does not appear the operator of this facility took the necessary precautions to prevent this child’s severe injuries.” Pritzker said. “This is all the more tragic because the place catered to children and kids are particularly vulnerable to E .coli O157:H7 and the horrible syndrome that frequently develops from it, HUS.''
Measure of Prevention
In petting zoo outbreaks, the primary mode of transmission is from feces of an animal to the mouth of the person by unconscious hand-to-mouth contact. Because animal fur, skin, and saliva can become contaminated with fecal germs, people can become infected when they pet, touch, or are licked by animals. Persons can also be exposed through contact with an animal’s living area, its bedding, fence rails or objects such as food and water dishes. Small children who touch animals or their space are particularly vulnerable because they often put their hands in their mouth.
In general, the golden rule of prevention at petting zoos and animal fairs is to wash hands often and thoroughly with soap and water after contact with any animal, animal product or living area. Other tips include:
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Supervise children under five when they are with animals.
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Don't drink, eat, smoke or allow children to carry toys or use pacifiers, sippy cups or baby bottles.
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Don't clean animal cages, food dishes, or water dishes in food preparation areas
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People in high risk groups should avoid contact with the animals.
Pritzker Olsen is a nationally recognized food safety law firm that has represented victims in practically every major outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 in the U.S. The firm is one of the few in the nation practicing extensively in the area of foodborne illness and it has collected millions for victims of all food poisoning. to receive a free case consultation, call 1-888-377-8900 (Toll Free) or complete our contact and information form.
