Food Poisoning in the News: Taco Bell and E. coli

Beginning on November 20, 2006, an outbreak of the bacteriumEscherichia Coli O157:H7 (E. coli) was linked to Taco Bellrestaurants in the northeastern United States. On December 14, 2006, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control andPrevention (CDC) announced that the outbreak appeared to be over.

71 Cases Reported

At least 71 cases were reported to theCDC in 5 states: New Jersey (33), New York (22), Pennsylvania(13), Delaware (2), and South Carolina (1 case of a person who at a Taco Bell in Pennsylvania). Among these 71 individuals, 53 (75%) werehospitalized and 8 (11%) developed a type of kidney failure called hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS).The peak time that persons became ill was during the last week ofNovember.

Cause of Outbreak

The most likely cause of this E. coli outbreak was the consumption of shredded Iceberglettuce. The U.S. Food and DrugAdministration (FDA) is working with state healthagencies and the CDC to investigate the precise source of the shredded lettuceand to pinpoint where the lettuce originated.It is too soon to tell how the lettuce may have becomecontaminated.

Early reports suggesting a link to the consumption of greenonions were inaccurate and unconfirmed.There is no indication that any type of onions, including green onions,are unsafe or are connected in any way this E.coli outbreak.

What is E. coli?

Escherichia coliO157:H7 (commonly called "E. coli") is one of hundreds of strains ofthe pathogenic bacterium Escherichia coli.Although most strains are harmless and live in the intestines of healthy humansand animals, this strain produces a powerful toxin and can cause severeillness.

Infection can cause diarrhea, which is often bloody. Most healthy adults recover completely withina week. However, infection in the veryyoung, the elderly, or health compromised individuals (such as those withweakened immune systems), can be much more serious. Some may develop a type of kidney failurecalled Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome(HUS), a condition that can lead to permanent kidney damage and even death.

Advice for Consumers

Consumers who are concerned that they may have contracted E.coli O157:H7 infection should contact their health care provider to seekappropriate medical evaluation and treatment.