MN Mom Dies From Same E. coli Infection That Killed Daughter

A Minnesota mother has died of the same rare E. coli infection that took the life of her 4-year-old daughter four years ago. It is believed that Karen Odens, 39, contracted the disease while caring for Sophia before her death.

After her daughter passed, Odens' own health rapidly deteriorated. She was hospitalized 30 times because of complications from the E. coli O157 strain.

The Pelican Rapids pharmacist died of kidney failure two weeks ago.

"The last four years have been really pretty rough," Sophia's father, Ed Welke, told the Star Tribune. "And the strange thing is, we never could figure out what Sophia ate."

Welke hopes the tragedy will demonstrate to the public the importance of washing produce and fully cooking meat in preventing infections.

Odens enjoyed helping people, fishing, gardening, and spending time with family and friends, reads her obituary.

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Symptoms of illness caused by E. coli O157 typically include stomach cramps and diarrhea, often with bloody stools, but only a low-grade or no fever. People typically become ill two to five days after exposure, but this period can range from one to eight days. Most people recover in five to 10 days.

However, E. coli O157 infections sometimes lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Those most at risk of developing complications from E. coli O157 include children younger than 10, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Diarrhea should not be treated with antibiotics, as this practice might promote the development of HUS. Anyone who believes they may have developed an E. coli O157 infection should contact their health care provider.

More information on E. coli O157 and how to prevent it can be found on the Minnesota Department of Health E. coli website.

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