Seven confirmed cases of E. coli were reported in the Windham/Willimantic area of Connecticut according to WFSB news.

The North Central District Health Department stated that all of those sickened required hospitalization, and two of the patients suffered Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a serious renal complication of E. coli infection.

The Department believes that the infections occurred sometime between mid-December and Christmas.  They have been unable to identify the source of the outbreak.

Escherichia coli or E. coli is a type of bacterium that lives in the intestines of healthy humans and animals. While many strains of E. coli are harmless, some strains are capable of producing a powerful toxin, known as Shiga toxin, and can cause severe, life-threatening illness.

E. coli Transmission

E. coli can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of foods contaminated with animal feces.  The unwashed hands of an infected food handler, and cross contamination of food utensils and preparation surfaces may also contaminate food.  Person-to-person contact in families, childcare centers, and nursing homes may serve as mode of transmission if hygiene or hand washing habits are inadequate.  E. coli outbreaks have also been linked to petting zoos.

E. coli Lawsuits and Food Poisoning Lawsuit Help

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with E. coli food poisoning, are awaiting medical confirmation of infection, or have a question regarding your legal rights, you can request a free legal case evaluation by selecting E. coli Lawsuit, or call us toll free at 877-934-6274.

For information concerning ongoing food poisoning outbreaks, please see Maryland and California Listeria Outbreak.