E.coli Outbreak Investigated, Connecticut Residents Sickened

HARTFORD, CT — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a multi-state outbreak of E.coli infections that may have a connection to a Canadian outbreak. Health officials in Canada have identified romaine lettuce as the source of the outbreak in the country.

The E.coli strain in the United States is genetically similar to its Canadian counterpart. So far two illnesses in Connecticut have been reported. A total of 17 patients across 13 states have been affected, according to the CDC.

The CDC is working to interview sickened individuals to determine if there were any commonalities in food items that were consumed, particularly leafy greens and romaine lettuce.

"Because we have not identified a source of the infections, CDC is unable to recommend whether U.S. residents should avoid a particular food," the agency said in a statement.

E.coli is a group of bacteria that normally live in the intestines of animals and people. Six types are associated with diarrhea. Very young children and the elderly are more susceptible to infection.

Symptoms can vary between individuals, but commonly include diarrhea and vomiting. Fever is generally mild and most people recovery within five to seven days. Most illnesses are mild, but some can be severe or life-threatening.

Treatment for e.Coli infection includes general supportive therapy, such as keeping the patient hydrated.

The CDC recommends frequent hand washing, cooking meats to proper temperatures and avoiding unpasteurized dairy products to prevent infection.

Image via Janice Haney Carr/CDC