The Madison County Health Department is investigating 3 cases of E. Coli caused illness in the county. The 1st case was reported last week and two additional cases have been reported this week. Of the 3 cases, one was an adult and the other two were children.
During an online meeting yesterday, the Kentucky Department of Public Health reported the state has now seen 44 cases of the food-borne illness. And reports the following state-wide information:
- 44 lab-confirmed cases from 24 counties (Across the state from Pike County to Carlisle County)
- Age range 1-81, (median age 18)
- Sex – Female 25, Male 19
- Hospitalized cases – 6, that equals 14% of the cases
- Cases have also been reported in Ohio, Tennessee, and Georgia
- State public health officials in conjunction with local health departments are working diligently to identify the source of the outbreak.
MCHD PIO Jim Thacker says the health department wants the public to be aware of the symptoms of E. Coli infection and seek immediate medical care if they suspect infection. The most common symptoms are severe stomach cramps and diarrhea. Some people vomit or have a fever, but these are less common. Sometimes the diarrhea turns bloody after 3 or 4 days. These symptoms usually go away by themselves after 5 to 7 days.
As far as preventing the illness, the most important things to remember are that these germs can only make you sick if you swallow them, and that the germs are killed by thoroughly cooking high risk foods and removed by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water. Follow the tips below; if you make them your habits, you can help prevent E. Coli infections—as well as other diseases:
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products (such as raw milk or non-aged cheese made from raw milk) and unpasteurized juices (like fresh apple cider).
- Always cook meat thoroughly. It is best to use a thermometer, as color is not a very reliable indicator of “doneness”. Ground beef should be cooked until the center is 160 º F.
- Do not put cooked meat or other prepared food on a dish or cutting board that held raw meat.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming or playing in lakes, ponds, streams, and swimming pools.
- Always wash your hands with soap and water after going to the bathroom or changing a diaper. Wash them again before touching or eating food. You should also always wash your hands after contact with animals or the environment where they live.
