The number of cases in the Los Burritos E. coli outbreak in Lombard, Illinois has increased to 17 cases; 9 confirmed and 8 probable. Six people have been hospitalized but all have been released, according to the Chicago Tribune.
The restaurant is still closed pending an investigation into the outbreak and how it may have occurred. Public health officials do not know what caused the outbreak and no specific food has been singled out as the possible source of the bacteria. The restaurant is cooperating in the investigation. The restaurant has other locations in other suburbs and no illnesses are associated with those venues. No employees have reported being ill.
E. coli O157:H7 is a dangerous pathogen that can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a complication of the infection. HUS can damage the kidneys and cause kidney failure. Children under the age of 5 are more likely to develop HUS and are more likely to contract food poisoning in the first place because of underdeveloped immune systems. Symptoms of an E. coli infection include severe cramps, watery and/or bloody diarrhea, mild fever, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms of hemolytic uremic syndrome include irritability, lethargy, low or no urine output, pale skin, easy bruising, skin rash, and jaundice. Medical attention is always required with HUS cases.
