A wave of cases linked to an outbreak in six other states has been identified, with 25 local cases genetically tied to Andre’s Banquets & Catering in St. Louis County. The outbreak, which sickened dozens, has now been connected to at least 115 people across the country.
In a recent update, investigators confirmed that leafy greens are an exposure factor, but the attack rates from St. Louis events are higher than those in other areas. Escherichia coli bacteria, particularly strain 0157, produces a toxin causing severe diarrhea and leading to kidney failure.
Three cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition causing blood clotting damage, have been reported. Two people remain hospitalized. Andre’s Banquets has maintained its innocence, but health officials are nearing the conclusion of their investigation.
The company is facing eight lawsuits, with more expected. A Seattle-based food poisoning lawyer said he anticipates filing additional cases. The St. Louis County outbreak began in November and has left many searching for answers about how contaminated lettuce ended up on menus.
Source: https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-courts/e-coli-cases-genetically-linked-to-andres-and-national-outbreak-st-louis-county-says/article_3423c326-b1a8-11ef-8ad3-5b31814b35c7.html