Ireland: E. coli outbreak ongoing

Event

According to Irish health officials, at least 96 confirmed cases of E. coli have been reported nationwide between June 25 and July 4 in an ongoing nationwide outbreak, representing an approximately 300 percent increase over the same period in 2017. According to the Ireland Health Service Executive (HSE), the cause of the outbreak had not been determined as of July 4; nevertheless, health officials have advised people to be careful about food safety.

Context

Individuals usually develop symptoms of E. coli two to eight days after consuming the contaminated food. Symptoms include diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, and vomiting. Most people recover within one week of contracting E. coli but some cases can become severe or life-threatening.

Advice

To reduce the risk of contracting E. coli, wash hands and cooking utensils regularly and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods. Individuals who believe they may have contracted the disease should seek immediate medical attention.