The United States has been experiencing a series of E coli outbreaks in products ranging from onions to, most recently, ground beef.More than 167,000 pounds (75.75 tonnes) of ground beef have been recalled after people fell sick from eating hamburgers at restaurants with a common meat supplier.
Here’s what to know about the current outbreak and the bacteria.
What is E coli and is it dangerous?
Escherichia coli, commonly shortened to E coli, is a bacterium found in the environment, intestines of people and animals, and food. While most strains are harmless, some, like E coli O157:H7, can cause serious illness, and even death.
This strain produces toxins that can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms and complications, including damage to the blood vessels in the kidneys. Children, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals are especially vulnerable to E coli.
What do we know about the recent infections and casualties?
Between November 2 and November 14, at least 19 people in Minnesota fell ill from eating meat contaminated with E coli. This led to a national recall of nearly 76 tonnes of ground beef by Detroit-based Wolverine Packing Co.
The contaminated meat, distributed to restaurants nationwide, was traced to hamburgers served at Red Cow and Hen House Eatery locations in Minnesota. No cases have been reported outside the state, and the investigation is ongoing.
Four individuals were hospitalised, including two peopl …
