Wichita E. Coli Lawyer

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While many strains of E. coli are harmless and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy intestinal environment, some strains can cause serious foodborne illnesses.

Symptoms of E. coli Infection

E. coli infections can cause a range of symptoms that typically affect the gastrointestinal tract. The severity and type of symptoms can vary depending on the specific strain of E. coli involved and the individual’s overall health.

Some of the common symptoms you may experience include:

• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea (occasionally bloody, if the infection is serious)
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

Preventing E. coli Infections

Preventing E. coli infections involves adopting measures that ensure food safety, personal hygiene, and proper food and water handling.

Proper Food Handling and Cooking

• Cook Meat Thoroughly: Ensure that all meat, especially ground beef, is cooked to a safe internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) to kill E. coli bacteria. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature.
• Avoid Raw Milk and Unpasteurized Products: Only consume pasteurized milk, juice, and cider. Pasteurization effectively kills harmful bacteria, including E. coli.
• Wash Fruits and Vegetables: Rinse fresh produce under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking, even if you plan to peel them. This helps remove potential contaminants on the surface.
• Practice Safe Storage: Keep raw meat separate from other foods in your shopping cart, refrigerator, and during preparation to avoid cross-contamination.

Ensuring Water Safety

• Drink Treated Water: Ensure your drinking water is from a safe, treated source. Avoid drinking untreated water from lakes, rivers, and streams.
• Boil Water When Necessary: In areas where the water quality is questionable or during a boil water advisory, boil water for at least one minute before drinking or using it for cooking.
• Avoid Swallowing Recreational Water: When swimming in pools, lakes, or other bodies of water, try to avoid swallowing the water, as it may be contaminated with E. coli.

Practicing Good Personal Hygiene

• Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, handling raw meat, and before eating or preparing food. Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of E. coli.
• Use Hand Sanitizers: When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.

Avoiding Cross-Contamination in Food Preparation Areas

• Separate Raw and Cooked Foods: Use separate cutting boards, plates, and utensils for raw meat and cooked foods. Clean all surfaces and utensils with hot, soapy water after they’ve been in contact with raw meat.
• Clean Surfaces Regularly: Disinfect kitchen surfaces, cutting boards, and utensils regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Proper Food Storage: Store perishable items at the correct temperatures. Refrigerate or freeze meat, poultry, eggs, and other perishables within two hours of purchase or preparation to slow bacterial growth.

By implementing these preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of contracting an E. coli infection. These practices are essential not only for personal health but also for public health, as they help to prevent the spread of E. coli in the community.

Wichita E. coli Statistics

In 2018, 241 E. coli cases were reported in Kansas, and this decreased to 227 in 2019. Of those statewide cases, 23 were in Sedgwick in 2018 and 30 in 2019.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment past E. coli investigations:

• There was an outbreak of STEC O157 in 2017 at a house party. Six people under the age of 18 reported becoming ill within 10 days of the party date. The investigation determined transmission to be via person-to-person contact.
• 48 people reported gastrointestinal illness after attending the Kansas Cider Festival in 2016. Unpasteurized juices and cider are known to be an E. coli risk, and cold, unpasteurized cider and cider slushies were served at the event. The samples taken during the investigation were negative, and the source of contamination could not be determined.
• During a routine investigation in 2015, two individuals at a daycare tested positive for E. coli. 23 children ages 8 to 24 months were exposed to E. coli; there were two confirmed cases, 10 children who developed symptoms, and 8 probable cases.

Call Us Now

Have you or a loved one been affected by an E. coli infection? You don’t have to face this difficult situation alone. The Lange Law Firm is dedicated to helping individuals like you with E. coli cases. Our expert team will thoroughly investigate your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (833) 330-3663 or email us for a free consultation. We’re here to provide the support and legal knowledge you need to move forward. Don’t delay—reach out now to begin your journey toward justice and recovery.