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Health officials
confirm E. coli caused sickness
By
Joe Benedict/News Network
Source of Article: http://www.dailygate.com/articles/2008/10/20/news/02.txt
Published:
Monday, October 20, 2008 2:30 PM CDT
While
the source of the case of E. coli infection has not been confirmed, the Lee
County Health Department has confirmed that it is the bacteria
that has caused one sickness. The department also is investigating a
second possible case of infection in the county.
The public health department released a statement Wednesday concerning one
possible case of E. coli 0157:H7 occurring in the county. It began an
investigation, along with assistance from the Iowa Department of Public
Health. The results were returned as positive for E. coli on Thursday.
The Hancock County, Ill. Health Department also is investigating a possible
case of E. coli infection. That department cannot release any information
until it has confirmed a sickness is caused by the bacteria.
The Lee County Health Department shared several steps that can be taken to
prevent the spread of the bacteria. Persons should not fix or touch food
meant for others while having diarrhea. Always wash hands thoroughly with
soap and water before eating and before and after fixing any food, especially
raw meat.
Wash hands after using the toilet and after changing diapers and wash the
child's hands. When caring for someone with diarrhea, wash hands with plenty
of soap and water after cleaning the bathroom, helping the person use the
toilet or changing diapers, soiled clothes or sheets.
Always refrigerate meat. Never leave raw meat at room temperature. Never eat
raw or undercooked ground meat. If serving an undercooked hamburger or other
ground meat product in a restaurant, sent it back for further cooking. Cook
all ground beef and hamburger thoroughly, to a temperature of 155 degrees for
at least 15-16 seconds or until juices run clear and no pink is visible.
Always wash hands, cutting boards
and utensils between fixing raw meat or poultry and other items such as
fruits and vegetables. Drink only pasteurized milk, juice or cider.
The LCHD said the Iowa Department of Public Health has investigated 134 cases
of E. coli statewide this year. Most of the cases are not related to each
other, or to an outbreak. More facts can be found on the public health
website at www.idph.stat.ia.us.
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