Florida Department of Health Continues to Investigate E. coli Cases

TALLAHASSEE The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is working closely with state and local partners to continue investigating reported cases of E. coli O157:H7 and/or Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) in central Florida. As of March 30, 2005, there have been 19 cases confirmed cases in children and three confirmed cases in adults, as well as

15 suspected cases in children and nine suspected cases in adults.

A suspected case involves individuals with diarrhea with variable severity (from mild to severe and bloody) who have recently attended Florida fairs or festivals, while a confirmed case involves individuals with diarrhea with variable severity (from mild to severe and bloody) that has tested positive for E. coli O157:H7 and/or a diagnosis of HUS, and has recently attended Florida fairs or festivals.

If you or your children attended a recent event with animal exhibits, and has diarrhea with variable severity (from mild to severe and bloody), contact your healthcare provider.

To avoid infection and illness, DOH recommends the following safety tips:

           Wash hands often, and immediately after contact with domestic or farm animals.

           Do not eat undercooked meat.

           If you suspect your child may have symptoms of infection, contact your health care provider.

Source: Florida Department of Health