Myles Mayfield, 2, of Greenwood , SC has died from hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a complication of E. coli infections that causes kidney failure. He died May 31 at Greenville Memorial Hospital, coroner Sonny Cox told WYFF News.
HUS primarily affects young children occurring in about 10 percent who have E. coli infections. In addition to kidney failure, it can cause seizure, stroke and coma. Health officials have not identified the source of the infection.
E. coli is transferred when microscopic amounts of human or animal feces are ingested. This can happen through poor hygiene of food handlers, consuming unpasteurized dairy products or contact with live animals at petting zoos or other exhibits.
The daycare that Myles attended told WYFF in a statement: “We are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of all of our children. We are working with DHEC to ensure that no other children are sick and at this time it, seems to be isolated. We have had the facility professionally cleaned on Saturday and we’re also having professional cleaners come in today. Our parents will be immediately notified if another child becomes sick.”
