There have been at least 46 confirmed cases of E. coli in Kentucky in the first quarter of 2019, and the cause of the outbreak has been linked to consumption of ground beef. There are 109 total known cases in 6 states, most of them being in Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control has not linked the outbreak with any particular supplier, distributor, or brand, but the Mercer County Health Department in Kentucky announced these cases were “found in children and teenagers with an extensive exposure to fast food.” Not all of the cases are associated with teens or children, as adults and the elderly were affected as well.
E. coli is a foodborne illness which often occurs if someone consumes contaminated or raw food. Spread by fecal contamination, it severely affects the intestines. Recent outbreaks have been tied to the ingestion of leafy vegetables, undercooked meat, and raw milk. A doctor can diagnose E. coli with a stool sample analysis and those infected experience some or all of the following symptoms, usually within 3 to 4 days of consumption:
- Diarrhea, often with blood
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Urinary tract infections
- Fever
- Kidney disease, or hemolytic uremic syndrome
Currently, there is no treatment for E. coli other than rest and an increased intake of fluids. This illness can have serious health complications and has the potential to be life-threatening, especially in young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and anyone with a compromised immune system. Severe cases may require hospitalization where treatment includes IV fluids, blood transfusions, and kidney dialysis.
Injured in Louisville & Seeking Top-Rated Legal Counsel? Call Brett H. Oppenheimer, PLLC Today
Attorney Brett Oppenheimer, a highly-esteemed and tenacious Kentucky lawyer, is currently investigating the most recent E. coli outbreak in Kentucky. Companies responsible for distributing and supplying food to the public must adhere to food safety standards and regulations, and if these standards are ignored or compromised, the companies must be held liable. Victims of someone else’s negligence or misconduct deserve compensation for all they have endured.
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with E. coli, please call Brett Oppenheimer, (502)242-8877 or fill out the contact form on this website.