European e. Coli Outbreak Appears to be Winding Down

German Robert Koch Institute reported in July that 852 patients with hemolytic uremic syndrome were identified who had come down with the illness though the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli bacteria – including six confirmed cases in the U.S. resulting in one death.

The study concluded that contaminated raw sprouts from one farm in Germany are the likely source of the outbreak, and that the farm had been closed. The sprouts produced there are no longer in restaurants or store shelves in Germany, meaning the number of cases has markedly decreased since the discovery.

The CDC has been monitoring the E. coli outbreak, one of the worst international outbreaks in some time, since state health departments began reporting the ongoing outbreak during or after travel to Germany and since April 1, 2011. The CDC has also been working with state health departments to learn more about confirmed cases.

Travelers to Germany have been made aware that the recommendation not to eat cucumbers, tomatoes and leafy salads in northern Germany was lifted. On June 10, 2011, and the number of cases associated with this outbreak has markedly decreased.

On July 5, 2011, the investigation led to the identification of a single lot of fenugreek seeds, from an exporter in Egypt, as the most likely source of the sprouts linked with the two outbreaks. Still, any person who has recently traveled to Germany or has been in contact with an ill person who has recently traveled to Germany should tell their medical provider. Symptoms usually begin with fever, and most people get better within 5-7 days. But some patients go on to develop HUS—usually about a week after the diarrhea starts. Symptoms of HUS include decreased frequency of urination, feeling very tired, and losing pink color of skin and membranes.

If you or someone you love has been infected by this or any other contagious bacteria, the Doan Law Firm, P.C., led by Houston personal injury attorney Jimmy Doan, has extensive experience in personal injury litigation. Contact the Doan Law Firm, P.C. at 1 Riverway, Suite 2055, Houston, Texas 77056, (713) 869-4747 or (800) 910-FIRM.