E. coli Outbreak Hits PA, Wendy's Lettuce Linked To Illnesses: CDC

PENNSYLVANIA — A fast-moving E. coli outbreak has spread to Pennsylvania, according to federal health officials, who on Friday linked Wendy's romaine lettuce to nearly 40 illnesses here and in three other states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As many as five cases of E. coli infection have been reported in Pennsylvania, according to CDC data. Illnesses were first reported in Michigan and Ohio. A total of 37 people have been infected since late July, an increase of eight cases from earlier this week.

Wendy's announced Friday it will remove romaine from sandwiches at several locations in the affected states.

Health officials are still working to confirm whether Wendy's romaine is responsible for the illnesses; however, 22 of 26 infected people interviewed by the CDC reported eating burgers and sandwiches with romaine lettuce at Wendy’s restaurants before getting sick.

The CDC said there is no evidence that romaine sold in grocery stores is linked to the E. coli outbreak, The Associated Press reported. The agency also said it is not advising people to stop eating at Wendy’s or not to eat romaine lettuce.

Wendy’s told The AP that the lettuce used in its salads is different and not affected by its decision to pull the lettuce from sandwiches. The company said it is cooperating with the CDC.

“As a company, we are committed to upholding our high standards of food safety and quality,” Wendy's said in a statement.

According to federal health officials, the number of E. coli cases is likely underreported and it's possible the outbreak may have spread to other states.

E. coli is often accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102 degrees
• Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving
• Bloody diarrhea
• Excessive vomiting / unable to keep liquids down
• Dehydration (signs include dry mouth and throat, feeling dizzy when standing, and lack of urination)

The CDC offers tips on how to avoid or reduce the risk of E. coli on its website.