As part of the investigation into the outbreak involving Costco’s rotisserie chicken, the Montana Public Health Laboratory ran tests on the contaminated product. Their samples were taken from the celery and onion mix produced by Taylor Farms, which was believed to be the source of the outbreak. However, health officials were unable to confirm that the onion and celery mix was contaminated with E. coli. The celery and onion mix was voluntarily recalled on November 26 after it was linked to the outbreak by health officials. Although there have been no positive tests as of yet, health officials have not ruled out the mix as the source of the outbreak.
As of December 8, there are 19 people infected with E. coli in 7 states. States affected include California with 1 case, Colorado with 4 cases, Missouri with 1 case, Montana with 6 cases, Utah with 5 cases, Virginia with 1 case, and Washington with 1 case. No cases have been reported to the CDC since November 23, but there is still the possibility for new cases to surface.
E. coli is a family of bacteria that is found in the intestines of many animals. Some strains of the bacteria can cause infection in humans. Symptoms can appear between 3 and 10 days after infection, and will include vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. E. coli infections can be very serious. The infection may cause a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS damages red blood cells, which in turn can cause kidney damage or failure. If you or a loved one begins to show the symptoms of E. coli poisoning, contact a medical professional.
If you or a loved one suspects you are infected with e. coli as a result of consuming food at the Blair Academy, seek medical attention immediately. Even if your condition is not life-threatening, blood and stool samples may be necessary to establish the source of your illness. Contact the food poisoning lawyers at the Merman Law Firm for competent, compassionate representation. Our team of e. coli lawyers are here to help.
