CDC, Health Depts. Investigating Multistate E. Coli Outbreak

ATLANTA — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and several state health departments have begun investigations into an outbreak of E. coli infections believed to be tied to sandwiches from Wendy’s fast-food restaurants.

As of Tuesday morning, 37 people were reported to have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli 0157, with Ohio being the hardest hit state with 19 infections, Michigan next, with 15, Pennsylvania, 2, and Indiana, 1.

At least 10 people have been hospitalized, with three having experienced a rare but serious form of kidney failure.

So far, no deaths have been associated with the outbreak.

According to the CDC, of 26 people interviewed following their infection, 22 reported eating sandwiches at a Wendy’s restaurant in the week leading up to their illnesses.

“We are fully cooperating with public health authorities on their ongoing investigation of the regional E. coli outbreak reported in certain midwestern states,” Wendy’s said in a statement provided to The Well News.

“While the CDC has not yet confirmed a specific food as the source of that outbreak, we are taking the precaution of removing the sandwich lettuce from restaurants in that region.”

Wendy’s added: “The lettuce that we use in our salads is different, and is not affected by this action. As a company, we are committed to upholding our high standards of food safety and quality.”

The CDC is investigating whether the source of the outbreak is actually romaine lettuce that may have been used in the sandwiches, and if so, what the source of the lettuce is; at the same time, investigators are trying to determine whether any other restaurants received potentially tainted lettuce.

“At this time, there is no evidence to indicate that romaine lettuce sold in grocery stores, served in other restaurants, or in people’s homes is linked to this outbreak,” the agency said.

In the meantime, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued an updated public health alert regarding the outbreak.

“We are reminding residents in Michigan to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of E. coli illness such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting or other gastrointestinal distress,” said Dr. Alexis Travis, senior deputy director of public health administration at MDHHS in a written statement. “Additionally, we urge residents to take proper precautions when handling food and practice safe food preparation.”

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