Detroit E. Coli Attorney

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains of E. coli are harmless and even beneficial to the digestive system, some can cause serious illness.

Some strains, like E. coli O157, produce Shiga toxin, which can cause severe damage to the lining of the intestines, leading to bloody diarrhea and potentially severe complications like Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS).

Symptoms of E. coli Infection

Many of the symptoms of E. coli infection are gastrointestinal and can include:

• Diarrhea (can be watery or bloody)
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever (usually low-grade)

Severe Complications

If left untreated, infection can lead to:

• Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): A serious condition that can lead to kidney failure, especially in young children and the elderly.
• Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP): A rare blood disorder that can also be triggered by certain E. coli infections.

Sources of E. coli

• Undercooked Ground Beef: A significant source, especially in hamburgers.
• Unpasteurized Milk and Dairy Products: Raw milk can harbor E. coli.
• Fresh Produce: Leafy greens, such as spinach and lettuce, can be contaminated.
• Water Contamination: Drinking or swimming in contaminated water can lead to infection.
• Person-to-Person Contact: Poor handwashing practices can spread E. coli, particularly in settings like daycare centers.

Situations Where a Third Party Might Be Liable for an E. coli Infection

Many cases of E. coli occur due to an outbreak, where a large population can be impacted. In these cases, a third party is often liable. Some examples may include:

• Contaminated Food Products: If contamination occurs during food manufacturing or processing, the company responsible for that stage can be held liable.
• Restaurants and Food Service Providers: If improper food handling, preparation, or storage at a restaurant leads to E. coli contamination, the establishment can be held accountable.
• Grocery Stores and Retailers: If a retailer sells food products contaminated with E. coli, they might be liable, especially if they fail to adhere to food safety regulations.
• Contaminated Drinking Water: If a public or private water supplier provides contaminated water that leads to an E. coli infection, they could be liable for failing to ensure the safety and quality of the water supply.
• Daycare Centers and Schools: If a daycare or school fails to enforce proper hygiene practices, leading to an E. coli outbreak, they can be held responsible for any resulting infections.
• Farmers and Agricultural Producers: If contamination occurs due to improper farming practices, the farmers or agricultural producers might be liable.
• Manure Management: Improper handling and use of manure contaminating water or producing can also result in liability.

Legal Considerations

• Negligence: The key factor in many cases is proving negligence – that the third party failed to take reasonable steps to ensure safety.
• Product Liability: For food products, strict liability can apply, meaning the manufacturer or seller can be held liable without proof of negligence if the product was defective or unsafe.
• Proof of Causation: It must be demonstrated that the E. coli infection was directly caused by the third party’s actions or negligence.

If you suspect a third party is responsible for an E. coli infection, it’s important to gather evidence, such as medical records, purchase receipts, and any communication with the implicated party. Consulting with a lawyer specializing in personal injury or food safety cases can help determine the best course of action.

Detroit E. coli Statistics

In 2012, Michigan’s E. coli outbreak cases spiked. A prison facility in Saginaw County had 111 cases of gastrointestinal illnesses linked to E. coli.

The number of E. coli cases reported in Michigan between 2018 and 2022. The increase in 2022 may be related to two separate multistate outbreaks. One outbreak was linked to frozen falafel; 6 states were impacted, but Michigan had the highest number of illnesses, with 13 people affected. The other outbreak was classed as from an “unknown source” and was connected to Wendy’s restaurants. 52 people nationwide were affected, and 13 people developed hemolytic uremic syndrome.

In 2022, Wayne County reported 51 E. coli cases, over double the 22 cases reported in 2021.

Don’t Wait Any Longer

E. coli infections can be severe and have significant health impacts. Awareness of common sources and symptoms, along with practicing good hygiene and food safety, can help prevent the spread of these infections. If symptoms occur, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial to manage the infection and prevent complications.

Then, contact The Lange Law Firm at (833) 330-3663 or message us online for a free consultation. Our skilled team will investigate your E. coli case, pinpoint the liable parties, and aggressively seek the compensation you deserve.