Kansas City child among 5 local victims in E. coli outbreak

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – E. coli has sickened at least five people, including a 12-year-old child, living in the Kansas City metro, according to health leaders.

The Kansas City Health Department said the victims, who range in age from 12 to 37 years old, experienced symptoms including severe gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea and vomiting.

The department said three of the five people diagnosed with E. coli were hospitalized for up to a week.

Four of the five cases have been linked to the multistate McDonald’s outbreak, according to the Kansas City Health Department.

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The office said it is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate the E. coli outbreak.

So far, 75 people in 13 states, including Missouri and Kansas, have been diagnosed with E. coli. According to information provided by the Kansas City Health Department, one person died and another 22 of the patients have been hospitalized.

In addition, one child and one adult are being treated for a complication that can lead to kidney failure, according to the CDC.

Health investigators said interviews with the impacted people indicate that all ate at McDonald’s before they became ill. They also said the majority of people reported eating a Quarter Pounder with fresh beef and slivered onions.

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The CDC is still working to identify the exact source of the E. coli contamination.

Until that happens, the health department is asking people to pay attention to changes in their health:

• Monitor for Symptoms: Be vigilant for symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
• Seek Medical Attention: If symptoms develop after eating a Quarter Pounder, seek medical care immediately. Inform your healthcare provider of recent meals to assist in diagnosis.
• Practice Food Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom, preparing food, or changing diapers.
• Avoid Food Preparation When Ill: If experiencing diarrhea, refrain from preparing food for others.

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