Health officials attributed fresh produce to an E.coli outbreak that affected people in several counties across the Washington state.
The Washington State Department of Health said there have been at least six E.coli outbreaks in four Washington state counties as of Wednesday. They also recorded three cases happening in King County (DOH).
The cases vary in age from 0 to 79, with two of the six confirmed cases between 10 and 19. As a result, at least three patients have been admitted to hospitals. According to health authorities, at least one person has experienced hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). It's a "severe complication" of an E. coli infection that may affect the kidneys and other organs.
"DOH is coordinating with local health jurisdictions to identify cases related to the outbreak using genetic testing of the bacteria and investigating possible causes," officials said on a DOH website. Authorities also noted that the illnesses data back as far as March 9.
What Causes and Symptoms of E.coli?
E. coli normally triggers infection two to eight days after consuming an infected food, which is diagnosed by stool tests.
The signs of E. coli infections vary from person to person. However, Food Safety News said symptoms often include extreme stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. A fever can be present in some patients. Within five to seven days, the majority of patients are back to normal. Some may have serious or life-threatening symptoms and complications (CDC).
A potentially life-threatening kidney failure complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome affects about 5 to 10% of those diagnosed with E. coli infections (HUS). Fever, stomach pain, extreme tiredness, reduced frequency of urination, minor unexplained bruising or bleeding, and pallor are all symptoms of HUS.
Many people with HUS recover in a matter of weeks, but others sustain permanent injuries or death. This disease can affect people of any age, but it is more frequent in children under the age of five because their immune systems are still developing, older adults because their immune systems are deteriorating, and people with damaged immune systems, such as cancer patients.
Those who are experiencing HUS symptoms should seek emergency medical attention right away. HUS patients are likely to be admitted to the hospital because the condition can lead to other serious and long-term complications such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, brain damage, and neurologic issues.
If you have diarrhea that lasts longer than three days, blood on the stool, or frequent vomiting, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends seeing a doctor.
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