E. coli

Rockwood Summit Ecoli Outbreak

The St. Louis Department of Health have announced an outbreak of Ecoli illnesses linked to not one but two catered events on behalf of Rockwood Summit High School. Here is everything we know about this Rockwood Summit Ecoli Outbreak:

Rockwood Summit Ecoli Outbreak

According to the local news media, “Officials said although current details are suggestive of salad being the source of illness, they have not identified a specific ingredient, nor do they have information on the nature or timing of the contamination. They said Andre’s Banquets and Catering has been cooperating with investigators.”

“The health and safety of our community are our highest priorities,” said Dr. Kanika Cunningham, Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Public Health. “Our team is working tirelessly alongside the Rockwood School District and other stakeholders to pinpoint the source of this outbreak and prevent further cases. We are grateful for the district’s cooperation and for the community’s patience as we complete this critical work.”

On Wednesday, Rockwood Summit High School Principal Emily McCown said the district was contacted by the St. Louis County Department of Public Health in regards to the suspected E. coli infections. An email sent to parents said it was all connected to food eaten at an “end-of-season event,” and on Friday, district spokeswoman Mary LaPak said they are investigating a second school event as well.

“We are providing lists of students, staff and guests who attended those events and we are assisting with notifications so [the health department] can identify the source as quickly as possible,” LaPak said in the statement. “The safety and well-being of our students, staff, families and community members is something we take very seriously and we are grateful to our county health officials for their thoroughness and diligence in working to identify the source of the outbreak.”

The email also said the district was bringing in “extra help” to deep clean the school. That cleaning included spraying classrooms and common areas, and increased focus on all bathrooms and doorknobs.

The Department of Public Health urges anyone experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection – including severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting, and fever – to seek medical attention immediately. Preventative measures such as proper handwashing and food safety practices remain critical during this time.

Do We Know What Food is Involved?

Officials said although current details are suggestive of salad being the source of illness, they have not identified a specific ingredient, nor do they have information on the nature or timing of the contamination. They said Andre’s Banquets and Catering has been cooperating with investigators.

What is E. coli?

What exactly is E. coli, and why is it dangerous?

E. coli is a bacterium that can be found in the digestive system of humans and animals. Certain E. coli strains, such as those in the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) category are harmful to humans.

When people ingest this bad bug, they become sick. Severity of infection can vary from person to person, ranging from mild to more severe.

Common symptoms include:

Severe stomach cramps
Diarrhea (often bloody)
Vomiting

Some people may also experience a fever less than 101 °F. In most cases, people begin to feel sick around 3 to 4 days after eating or drinking something contaminated with the bacteria. For many, these symptoms can persist around 5 to 7 days before feeling better.

Many people can recover on their own without medical intervention, however you should seek medical attention if you have diarrhea lasting more than 3 days and a fever above 102 °F, bloody diarrhea, or so much vomiting that you become dehydrated.

Some people may develop a serious complication known as HUS.

Some people are more likely to get infected.

Groups of people who are at increased risk for E. coli infection include:

Children younger than 5
Adults 65 and older
People with weakened immune systems
International travelers

What is HUS?

Hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, is a type of kidney failure that develops in about 5 to 10% of those diagnosed with STEC infection. It is a potentially life-threatening complication that prevents the kidneys from working properly.

HUS symptoms include:

Decreased urination
Feeling very tired
Paleness in cheeks and inside lower eyelids

HUS symptoms usually begin about 7 days after initial diarrheal symptoms and begin as the original intestinal symptoms start to improve. Those experiencing HUS symptoms should see a healthcare professional right away.

While most people with HUS recover within a few weeks, some may suffer permanent damage or even die from the illness. These symptoms should be taken very seriously.

The Lange Law Firm Can Help

If you have become sick after eating ground beef and may be a part of the Montana Ground Beef Ecoli Outbreak, you may have a legal case. The experienced E. coli lawyers at The Lange Law Firm, PLLC are committed to holding responsible those whose negligence has caused harm to others. If you have become sick from eating ground beef, reach out to The Lange Law Firm today by calling (833) 330-3663 or click here to fill out an online form.

Candess Zona-Mendola