Washington County Investigating E.coli Linked to County Fair

Washington County Public Health Officials are investigating several cases of E.coli that they think might be linked to contact with livestock at the county fair. They do not believe that food items were involved.

Officials say that they have not identified a specific source of the outbreak and the investigation is ongoing.

"This type of infection is highly contagious even when symptoms are mild," says Deputy Health Officer Dr. Christina Baumann.

"To prevent the spread of disease, people with diarrhea should stay home while sick and avoid handling food or preparing food for others."

Symptoms of E.coli infection can vary but often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting and sometimes fever. Some infections are very mild, but others are severe or even life-threatening.

"The best way to prevent getting E.coli infection is by washing hands well with soap and water," says Deputy Health Officer Dr. Christina Baumann. "It’s very important to wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers, before preparing or eating food, and after contact with animals or their environments at farms, petting zoos and fairs.”

Outbreaks at fairs are not uncommon. There are several county and state fairs still to come this season. Fairgoers should take the following precautions to keep themselves and their children healthy:

Do not put anything in your mouth in the animal areas, including food, beverage, pacifiers, toys or hands.

Leave any unnecessary items outside the animal areas.

Be aware that objects such as clothing, shoes and strollers can be contaminated with germs in the animal areas.

Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands!

Be sure to supervise your children to make sure they are washing their hands well.

Image via Wikimedia Commons