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20 Kentuckians Test Positive For E. Coli

Posted at 3:09 PM, Mar 29, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-29 15:09:24-04

FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18 )-  The Kentucky Department of Public Health confirms that there are 20 cases of E. Coli in the Commonwealth.

20 Kentuckians have tested positive with a strain of  E. coli O103. Public health investigators have not yet identified the source of the outbreak, but have noted that some sort of food distribution is a likely mechanism for this outbreak among many of the individuals afflicted by the sometimes life-threatening bacteria.

The reported cases involve a number of children as well as adults, many of whom reside in Central Kentucky.

There have been no deaths so far.

The public can help prevent E. coli infections by;

  • Washing hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water, especially before eating, after going to the bathroom, handling raw meat and eggs, and after handling or petting animals;
  • Thoroughly washing produce before eating;
  • Thoroughly cooking meat;
  • Cleaning and sanitizing food preparation areas;
  • Avoiding swallowing lake or pool water;
  • Drinking only pasteurized milk;
  • Frequently cleaning and sanitizing restrooms, including doorknobs and faucets; and
  • Reporting diarrheal illnesses to your physician.

If you believe you have experienced symptoms of illness that could be associated with this E. coli outbreak, please consult your health care provider or your local health department.