TRAVERSE CITY -- Three E.coli cases are being linked the fair in Grand Traverse County.
The Grand Traverse County Health Department has received reports of three probable cases of Shigatoxin-producing E.coli in the past week.
All cases were in children and all three attended the Northwestern Michigan Fair in Grand Traverse County between August 9 and August 13.
The onset of symptoms, including bloody diarrhea, were between August 15 and August 17.
"Considering the number of animals in close proximity to people at that venue, it seems likely that their infections were contracted there", stated Dr. Michael Collins, Medical Director for the Grand Traverse County Health Department. "Though we will probably never know exactly which animal or animals were involved as sources". Collins also said the incubation period for this disease, which ranges from 2 to 10 days, is now past. The Health Department is now monitoring for any secondary infections that may occur.
GTCHD met today with an Epidemiologist from Michigan Department of Community Health and a Michigan Department of Agriculture Inspector to discuss and set strategies for this matter.
The water supply at the Fairgrounds was tested prior to the event and will be re-tested for possible contamination. Area physicians were also notified and encouraged to obtain stool cultures for individuals with severe or bloody diarrhea.
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli is a type of enterohemorrhagic E. coli bacteria that can cause illness ranging from mild intestinal disease to severe kidney complications. Typical symptoms include severe abdominal cramping, sudden onset of watery diarrhea, frequently bloody, and sometimes vomiting, lethargy, and a low-grade fever. Often associated with the consumption of undercooked beef, raw milk, unpasteurized apple juice, and contaminated water, it has also been isolated in poultry, pork and lamb. It is also spread person-to-person through fecal/oral transmission.
"If you or a family member have these symptoms, especially bloody diarrhea, you should see a doctor immediately", stated Fred Keeslar, Health Officer of the Grand Traverse County Health Department. "This is a good reminder when attending a public event to always wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and touching animals. Having hand sanitizer available would also be beneficial".
