According to ProMED-mail, a service of the International Society for Infectious Diseases, several cases of E. coli infection linked to beef products served in Texas and Georgia restaurants have been confirmed.
There have been five confirmed cases of E. coli in Brazos County, TX linked to ground beef from a local restaurant, according to a press release from the Brazos County Health Department. Five other cases are suspected given the similarity of the scenarios and symptoms, but they have not yet been confirmed.
"Control measures have been implemented to prevent further cases including mandatory glove use by employees and continuous monitoring by BCHD," said the Brazos County Health Department in a press release. "This was an isolated incident and is not a ongoing threat to public health. It's not known if the cause is due to improper temperature, improper cooking, or cross contamination."
The name of the restaurant has not yet been released.
A similar situation is unfolding in Stephens County, GA. Eleven confirmed cases of E. coli stemmed from residents eating at the BBQ Shack in Tocco, GA in early May. Local health officials say the restaurant has been cooperating fully with the investigation. No mention was made of what was consumed by the infected individuals.
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