Minnesota Child Dies, But No Source Found In E. Coli Infection

A Maple Lake, Minnesota family is dealing with heartbreak after a young girl died after she was infected by a severe strain of E. coli bacteria. Kallan Maresh passed away after she and her older brother Kade, suffering from diarrhea and vomiting, were rushed by ambulance to the University of Minnesota’s Masonic Children’s Hospital last month.

The infections caused hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious form of kidney failure, in the children, according to state health officials. This severe complication resulted in the death of Kallan; Kade is recovering at home.

Minnesota Department of Health epidemiologists have completed their investigation into the E. coli bacterial infections, but were not able to identify a specific source.

Previous coverage: Maple Lake, Minnesota Girl Dies Of E. Coli Bacteria Infection

The children were sickened with a strain of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli, or STEC, known as STEC O145, as well as an undetermined type of STEC, according to a news release.

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Disease investigators considered all known potential sources of E. coli, including typical sources, which can include foods such as ground beef, leafy greens and raw milk; swimming; person-to-person transmission in families or daycares; and farm animal contact, such as at fairs or petting zoos.

“Unfortunately, we were not able to identify the source of the children’s infections,” said MDH State Public Health Veterinarian Joni Scheftel in a statement.

“In particular, we did not find a connection with a petting zoo that the children visited, despite extensive testing of the animals.”

To date there have been no additional cases of people infected with the same strains of E. coli, officials said. “However, we will continue to monitor for cases that may help establish a link and/or source,” Scheftel added.

• GoFundMe for Kade & Kallan's Medical Expenses

Infection prevention

• Health officials said it’s important to be aware that germs like Shiga toxin-producing E. coli can be found in food and animals, even healthy ones. They urged people to continue everyday precautions to help prevent infections.
• Cook meats to proper temperatures and check doneness with a meat thermometer, avoid contaminating ready-to-eat foods with the juices from raw meat, wash raw fruits and vegetables before eating them, wash your hands after using the bathroom, before you eat and after being in contact with animals or their environment.

Image via GoFundMe