June 18, 2009: Link May Exist Between Nestle Toll House Raw Cookie Dough and E. Coli Outbreak
Colorado public health officials are warning residents not to eat raw Nestle Toll House cookie dough because of possible E. coli O157:H7 contamination.
The Colorado State Health Department, CDC, and other state health departments are investigating 66 cases of E. coli O157:H7 infections in 28 states. While the investigation is ongoing, preliminary data suggest that Nestle Toll House cookie dough may be the source of this latest E. coli outbreak.
Colorado health officials reported that of the four people interviewed so far, all had eaten raw cookie dough during the week leading up to their illnesses.
Five E. coli cases have been reported in the following counties: Denver, Douglas (2), Jefferson, and Weld. Two of those sickened have been hospitalized, including one individual who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe complication of E. coli O157:H7 infection.
E. coli O157:H7 infections can be fatal. Symptoms of infection may include severe abdominal cramps, fever, and watery diarrhea. The diarrhea may become bloody and can lead to dehydration. Severe infections can cause kidney failure. The very young, elderly, and immunocompromised are at greatest risk for experiencing complications due to E. coli infection. To learn more, please visit out additional website dedicated to food safety and food litigation, www.foodpoisoning.com.
If you are experiencing E. coli food poisoning symptoms, or have a health related question contact your healthcare professional. He or she can order a stool culture which can confirm E. coli infection. Let your doctor know that you consumed the suspect cookie dough.
The Law Firm of Eric H. Weinberg represents victims of food poisoning outbreaks nationwide. If you are diagnosed with E. coli, are awaiting medical confirmation of infection, or have a question regarding your legal rights, please submit a Free Legal Case Evaluation or call us toll free at 1-877-934-6274.
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