A fall outing to a central California pumpkin patch has been linked to a serious outbreak of E. coli. coli which hospitalized three children, who are said to be in serious condition. San Luis Obispo County health officials say a total of five people have been infected with a strain of E. coli. coli producing Shiga toxin and are investigating ties to Brookshire Farms, a popular site with a pumpkin patch, hayrides and corn maze, according to People. Visitors who visited the farm between October 16 and 26 are advised to watch for symptoms such as stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea and seek medical attention promptly.
Brookshire Farms says it is closed for the remainder of the pumpkin season while testing is done. The outbreak follows a similar cluster of E. coli linked to a pumpkin farm in Illinois earlier this month. The county health department offers tips on how to prepare and handle intact and carved pumpkins to maximize the safety of your family, reports the San Luis Obispo Tribune.
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