The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) is investigating an outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections. Illnesses have been reported among students who attend the University of Arkansas. Here is what we know about this University of Arkansas Ecoli Outbreak:
At least four people have been hospitalized, including at least on with acute kidney failure. There have been at least 100 others exposed. The university says it’s working closely with the ADH to investigate the source, provide guidance and help prevent additional infections. Their focus is to stop the spread and to provide guidance for students.
Students are being asked to take preventative measures amidst the outbreak. On Wednesday, Aug. 23, the university emailed students notifying them of the outbreak. According to the email, this started more than a week ago. The email goes on to say illnesses had been reported among students who attend the college and that they’re aware of a few hospitalizations related to the outbreak.
“We are aware of a few hospitalizations related to the outbreak. The university is working closely with public health officials to help identify the source of the outbreak and provide guidance to help prevent additional infections. At this time, based on what we know about the onset of symptoms, we believe the outbreak started more than a week ago. Most people recover without treatment after 5 to 7 days. At this point, our primary concerns are caring for those who have already been impacted and preventing further spread as the bacteria is transmissible. While surface cleaning and sanitizing protocols are in place at the university, we encourage practicing proper hygiene, especially good handwashing, at all times, on and off campus. Individuals who experience severe E. coli symptoms should seek immediate medical attention (please see recommendations below),” said representatives of the University’s Pat Walker Health Center.
Dr. Naveen Patil, Deputy State Health Officer for the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), addresses media questions in a previously recorded video conference. You can watch the video recording here.
E. coli are bacteria found in the intestines of people and animals and in the environment; they can also be found in food and untreated water.
Most E. coli are harmless and are part of a healthy intestinal tract. However, some cause illnesses that are sometimes severe, such as diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory illness, and bloodstream infections. The types of E. coli that cause diarrheal illness are spread through contaminated food or water and through contact with animals or people.
Anyone can get sick from E. coli, but some people have an increased chance of infection. These people are:
Most people have diarrhea, which can be bloody, and most have stomach cramps that may be severe. Some also have vomiting. A high fever is uncommon. Symptoms usually last 5–7 days.
About 5–10% of people diagnosed with a type of E. coli called Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157 develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)—a type of kidney failure that can be life-threatening.
Contact your healthcare provider if you have diarrhea or vomiting that lasts for more than 2 days, bloody stools, a fever higher than 102°F, or signs of dehydration (including little or no urination, excessive thirst, a very dry mouth, dizziness or lightheadedness, or very dark urine).
Our mission is to help families who have been harmed by contaminated food or water. When corporations cause Ecoli food poisoning outbreaks, we use the law to hold them accountable. The Lange Law Firm is one of the only law firms in the nation focused on representing families in food poisoning lawsuits.
If you got sick in this University of Arkansas Ecoli Outbreak and are interested in making a legal claim for compensation, we can help. We want you to know that an E coli Lawyer at the Lange Law Firm, PLLC is currently investigating this matter and offering free legal consultations.
Our lawyer, Jory Lange became a lawyer to help make our communities and families safer. Anyone who was infected with E coli may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. To learn more about the University of Arkansas Ecoli Outbreak or making an E coli food poisoning claim, please contact the Lange Law Firm, PLLC by phone or contact us online.
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