The CDC has updated its release on the status of the multistate E. coli O157:H7 outbreak associated with Nestle Toll House raw cookie dough. As with past outbreaks, we’re seeing the typical pattern of increasing numbers over time as more victims, health providers, and health departments become aware of the E. coli O157:H7 outbreak and contribute their own findings to the collective evidence bank.
The most recent information from the CDC accounts for 70 persons infected with a strain of E. coli O157:H7 with a particular DNA fingerprint, reported from 30 states (Connecticut and Georgia join the list, while Arkansas is removed). Of the total 70, 41 have been confirmed by an advanced DNA test as having the outbreak-specific strain of E. coli O157:H7. The age range has increased to 65, with 66% of victims under the age of 19, and 75% female. Thirty people have been hospitalized, and seven have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Fortunately, no deaths have yet been reported related to this outbreak.
We’ll continue to report the most up-to-date information on this national E. coli O157:H7 outbreak, so keep checking back for the latest.
Richard J. Arsenault, 2011
