October 13, 2008: Eight E. Coli Cases In Vermont

Eight people in Vermont have been diagnosed with E. coli O157:H7 food poisoning.  The E. coli illnesses were reported in Chittenden (4 cases) and Washington (3 cases) counties, and by an individual who had recently visited Vermont.

Although the source of this latest E. coli outbreak is still unknown, the Vermont Department of Health is warning people not to eat undercooked meats. They also advise that consumers avoid unpasteurized and raw milk and milk products and that fruits and vegetables should be washed before consuming.

Vermont Health officials caution:

The Health Department is reminding Vermonters not to eat undercooked hamburger or ground beef products. Cook ground beef to at least 160ºF. Eating undercooked, pink ground beef is linked with a higher risk of illness. If a food thermometer is not available, do not eat ground beef that is still pink inside. Avoiding unpasteurized raw milk and milk products, and washing fruits and vegetables, are other practices that can help avoid serious foodborne diseases.

To learn more about E. coli food poisoning please see the additional pages of this blog, About E. coli and E. coli Symptoms or visit www.foodpoisoning.com.

Vermont health officials also advise that anyone experiencing severe abdominal symptoms should seek medical attention. Physicians are advised to report suspected cases of bacterial foodborne infection to the Vermont Department of Health at 802-863-7240 or 1-800-640-4374.

The Law Firm of Eric Weinberg represents victims of food poisoning outbreaks throughout the country. If you believe that you are the victim of a foodborne illness, please call us toll free at 1-877-934-6274, or click on Free Case Evaluation.  To learn more about our law practice, please click Food Poisoning Attorney. 

To learn more about recent food recalls, outbreaks, and legal news, please see Illinois E. coli Lettuce, Michigan E. coli Lettuce, and Salmonella IHOP.

5 comments October 13th, 2008