CACHE COUNTY, Utah — Public health officials say they have discovered an outbreak of E. coli among several Cache County residents, and they are working to figure out the source.
The Bear River Health Department said they have received reports of six confirmed E. coli infections as of Monday. They are now collaborating with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and the Utah State Laboratory to identify possible links between the cases, and hopefully to determine the source.
“Right now, I’m a little bit worried,” said Ian Pierson who lives in Logan.
So far, officials have only said that there is a "potential cluster of cases," based on "preliminary findings."
When asked for a more specific area or city these cases are coming from, the department said those details are staying with them.
“Right now we’re not going to identify that to protect the privacy of the few individuals infected,” said public information officer Estee Hunt.
The department is also not releasing the ages of those infected. Hunt also would not say if any of them have been hospitalized.
“It’s important to realize with this time of year it’s very common to have E. coli infections,” she said.
E. coli bacteria is commonly found in the environment and in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, some can cause severe illness. Symptoms of E. coli infection can vary but often include:
- Diarrhea, which may be bloody
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
“Although we are actively working to identify the source of this outbreak, there is no specific risk to the general public at this time," BRHD health officer Jordan Mathis said. "However, we advise residents to practice good hygiene, such as thoroughly washing their hands, especially after using the restroom and before handling food.”
The department also gave the following list of precautions to avoid potential E. coli infection:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing and consuming food, after using the restroom, and after contact with animals
- Cook meat thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria
- Avoid consuming raw milk and undercooked meat
- Thoroughly wash garden-grown fruits and vegetables before consuming
- Stay hydrated and seek medical attention if symptoms of E. coli infection are present
- If you suspect you have been exposed to the bacteria or are exhibiting symptoms, contact your healthcare provider
Anyone with questions can contact BRHD at 435-792-6500.
This outbreak comes only a few weeks after another E. coli outbreak in Lehi.
The Utah County Health Department reported 12 confirmed cases and six hospitalizations. All of those hospitalizations were children between the ages of one and 15.
The department traced the source to the city’s pressurized irrigation system.
Last Monday, public works began a treatment plan at the Sandpit Reservoir and the Low Hills Reservoir. There are no new updates on whether those measures have been effective.
The City of Lehi continues to send mass e-mails to residents reminding them to not water their lawns, and to avoid drinking or playing in the pressurized irrigation water.
According to the city, Lehi residents should be cautious with uncooked produce from their gardens. The CDC recommends to “not consume uncooked produce from your personal garden at this time.”
