Two US Residents Infested in European E.Coli Outbreak

Two U.S. residents who traveled in northern Germany may have been affected by the massive outbreak of food poisoning in Europe. Federal health officials confirmed Tuesday that the victims have been hospitalized with serious, life-threatening complications of E. coli infections.

The deputy director of food borne, bacterial and mycotic diseases at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Infection observed that:

we have never seen that organism before

The American victims have not yet been identified by name or state.

The FDA say is also flagging incoming produce especially cucumbers, lettuce and tomatoes from Spanish growers implicated in the outbreak for further inspection.

E.coli Contamination in Gorgonzola Cheese Sold at Costco

Colorado State health department officials have issued a warning to consumers who purchased Mauri Gorgonzola Cheese @ Costco with sell by dates January 13, 2011, and January 14, 2011. E. Coli O157:H was found in an unopened package that was tested at the state health department's lab. Consequently, its distributor, DPI Specialty Foods of Tualatin, Ore., has issued a recall for this product.


Consumers should note that this cheese was sold only at the Costco stores in Colorado. It is packaged in clear plastic in 1 lb. wedges and can be identified by information contained on a white sticker on the package: DISTRIBUTED BY DPI Specialty Foods Tualatin, OR, ITALY 34449" with sell by dates of "01/13/11" or "01/14/11." The Costco item number is 34449.

The FDA advises consumers against eating this cheese. You can return it to the place of purchase or dispose of it in a closed plastic bag. Place the bag in a sealed trash can that prevents people and animals (including wild animals), from eating the product.

The FDA advises that E. coli O157:H7 infection can lead to diarrhea and abdominal cramps. While most people recover within a week, some may develop a severe infection. Rarely, a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome can occur (as symptoms of diarrhea improve); this can happen at any age but is most common in children under 5 years old and in older adults. People with hemolytic uremic syndrome should be hospitalized immediately, as their kidneys may stop working and they may be at risk for other serious health problems.

State health officials urge persons with signs or symptoms of E. coli O157:H7 to contact their health care provider. The latter should immediately report any suspected infection to state or local public health authorities.

Costco has removed the cheese from its stores and using card purchase records, has notified consumers by phone of the situation.

Contact:
Lori Maldonado
Deputy Director, Office of Communications
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Cell: 303-921-8598
Email: lori.maldonado@state.co.us

Consumers with questions contact DPI Specialty Foods @: 1-800-597-3876.

Source: FDA