The multistate E. coli 0157H7 outbreak linked to Wegmans Organic Spinach and Spring Mix blend has sickened at least 20 people in five states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has put together consumer advice to hopefully contain the outbreak and prevent the spread of the bacteria through cross-contamination and person-to-person contact.
The product was recalled on November 2, 2012. It has since been withdrawn from the market. If you purchased this product, do not eat it. The product comes in 5-ounce and 11-ounce packages. You can bring the salad back to Wegmans for a refund, or dispose of it in a sealed trash container.
People most at risk for serious complications from an E. coli 0157:H7 infection include small children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses. The symptoms of an E. coli infection include diarrhea, which is usually watery and often bloody, and abdominal cramps. The symptoms appear three to four days after eating the contaminated food. Anyone who is sick should not prepare foods for others. Be careful about washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and changing diapers. Keep children with diarrhea home from school or day care. And always wash hands thoroughly before preparing food.
Attorney Fred Pritzker, who has represented many clients sickened by this pathogenic bacteria, said, “this investigation may expand beyond the specific product recalled, since other patients sickened with the same bacteria have reported consuming different salad mixes. We are investigating this outbreak to get more answers.”
The CDC has stated that the outbreak strain of the shiga-toxin producing E. coli bacteria (STEC) is rare. Complications of this illness can include hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, which can cause kidney failure and death. If you or anyone you know ate bagged salad greens and experienced the symptoms of an E. coli infection, see your healthcare provider immediately. Anyone sickened by STEC bacteria needs prompt medical attention.
