More than a dozen people are now part of an investigation into an E. coli outbreak. coli in San Luis Obispo County, with some developing serious complications.
The San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department released new details Friday about the outbreak, which officials are investigating for a possible link to Brookshire Farms near Los Osos Valley Road.
Dr. Christy Mulkerin, deputy health officer, said the outbreak involves Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, particularly E. coli O157, which can cause symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting.
“These are not the first cases we have had in our county,” Mulkerin said. “The difference is that these cases are all linked to a specific location and some people have become very ill. »
The county has confirmed five cases, including cases in children and young adults. Eight other cases are under investigation.
County officials said these people visited Brookshire Farms between Oct. 16 and 26 and subsequently developed symptoms.
“Symptoms usually appear three to four days after exposure, but it can be up to 10 days after exposure,” Mulkerin said.
One of the biggest concerns related to this strain of E. coli is hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, a serious complication that can damage the kidneys.
Public health officials said three people developed the complication. Another person was hospitalized but has since been released.
“It’s basically a systemic disease characterized by clotting problems, which can lead to symptoms such as stroke or kidney disease,” Mulkerin said.
She said children under five are particularly vulnerable to serious complications.
Public health officials are investigating a possible link to Brookshire Farms, but the exact source of the outbreak has not been identified.
Out of an abundance of caution, the farm remains temporarily closed and its nighttime maze has been removed.
The investigation also touches on another local Halloween tradition.
The city of San Luis Obispo has canceled its annual Pumpkin Smash.
“After consulting with the county public health department, we have unfortunately decided to cancel the Pumpkin Smash this year,” said Meg Buckingham, San Luis Obispo solid waste and recycling program manager.
The annual event gives families a way to dispose of their carved pumpkins after Halloween.
Even though the event won’t take place this year, the city said residents can still recycle their pumpkins at home.
“We encourage families and residents to put their leftover food, like their carved pumpkins, in their green bin at home,” Buckingham said.
The City says residents should remove all candles, decorations, stickers, lights or other non-organic materials before disposing of them.
Mulkerin says pumpkins themselves are not a health problem. For tips on how to clean them properly, click here.
Gn Health
