Quarantine Ordered in Wisconsin E. coli Scare

MILWAUKEE, Wisc-The Ozaukee County fairgrounds have been quarantined while officials search for the source of a recent E. coli outbreak that made 10 children sick, with two in possible kidney failure.

Each of the children went to the August 1-5 fair, but health officials say it is difficult to pinpoint the cause of the infection because the fairgrounds are now empty. However, they will remain empty until the source is located. Several upcoming events have been canceled.

Officials at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin are not releasing any information about those children hospitalized, but it has been reported that two are suffering kidney failure. Kidney failure is the most severe effect of an E. coli infection. Diarrhea, stomach cramps, fatigue, and nausea are also common side effects.

Children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are at risk.

The infection can be spread from contaminated food or water. People can also be infected from petting infected animals.

There were a variety of animals present at this year's fair, including an exotic pet show and 4-H farm animals.

Information from www.arizonarepublic.com

For more information about the fair, log onto: www.co.ozaukee.wi.us/images/CountyFair/CountyFair.htm