Cases have been reported in Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and South Dakota. Although no one has died from the contaminated food, two have been hospitalized. Illnesses in individuals ranging in age from 2 to 71 years occurred between October 15 and October 27. Seven out of the 10 infections were among women. The CDC noted that the number of those infected is probably much higher because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for E. coli. Minnesota public health officials traced at least one of the illnesses to E. coli O157:H7 detected in a package of leftover Josie’s Organics baby spinach collected from a sick person’s home. Five people in the outbreak said that they had eaten spinach in the week before they got sick. One who had fallen ill noted eating Fresh Thyme brand organic baby spinach, according to the Minnesota Department of Health. Typical symptoms of illness caused by E. coli O157 include stomach cramps and diarrhea. Some infections can cause severe bloody diarrhea and lead to life-threatening conditions, such as a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), or the development of high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurological problems. Other infections may have no symptoms or may resolve without medical treatment within five to seven days. People typically become ill two to five days after exposure, but the window may be as much as one to eight days. “People of any age can become infected with pathogenic E. coli,” according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “Children under the age of 5 years, adults older than 65, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe illness as a result of an E. coli infection. However, even healthy older children and young adults can become seriously ill.” State and local public health officials are continuing to interview people about the foods they ate in the week before they fell ill. If you suspect you may have a foodborne illness, the CDC details how to report cases on its website.
