WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - An E. coli outbreak that has been identified across six counties in North Carolina has been traced to the recently held State Fair, according to public health investigators.
As per the latest update issued by the North Carolina Division of Public Health, 26 cases related to the E. coli outbreak have been reported - with 10 confirmed cases and 16 under investigation. Five people are hospitalized.
The counties, which have reported the E.coli infections include, Wake (14), Sampson (6), Cleveland (1), Durham (1), Franklin (1), Johnston (1), Orange (1) and Wilson (1).
Of the 26 infected people, 23 persons attended the North Carolina State Fair held recently. Public health officials continue to consider the State Fair as the probable exposure for the outbreak.
Escherichia coli are bacteria found in the feces of animals such as cattle, sheep and goats. Most outbreaks in the United States have been associated with raw or undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk, unpasteurized juice and leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, etc.
E. coli can be spread from person to person; however, it can be prevented through frequent hand washing, especially before eating or preparing food, and after using the bathroom. The symptoms of E. coli infections vary for each person but often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), and vomiting. While some infections are very mild, others are severe or even life-threatening.
The United States Department of Health and Human Services estimates that E. coli infections cause about 265,000 illnesses and about 100 deaths every year.
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