Outbreak of Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli O157:H7 Infections Linked to Beef Products

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), multiple state public health authorities and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coliO157:H7 (STEC O157:H7) infections. Seven people infected with the outbreak strain of STEC O157:H7 have been reported from four states. Five ill people have been hospitalized. No one has developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure, and no deaths have been reported.

Epidemiologic, traceback, and laboratory evidence indicate that beef products produced by Adams Farm Slaughterhouse in Athol, Massachusetts is a likely source of this outbreak. On Sept. 24, 2016, Adams Farm Slaughterhouse recalled beef, veal and bison products due to possible E. coli O157:H7 contamination. The products subject to recall have establishment number EST. 5497 inside the USDA mark of inspection and include several lot numbers and cuts of meat. These items were shipped to farmers' markets, retail locations, and restaurants in Massachusetts, Connecticut and eastern New York. The products may have been shipped to neighboring states.

The CDC recommends that consumers, restaurants and retailers do not use, serve, or sell the recalled meat products. Don't cook recalled meat products and eat them. Throw the meat out or return it to the place of purchase. If you throw it away, put it in a sealed bag in the trash so that children, pets, or other animals can't eat it. Remember to check freezers for recalled meat.

Source: CDC