The E. coli outbreak linked to romaine lettuce from Wendy’s fast food restaurants has spread to New York and Kentucky, parts of six states where the disease has been detected.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are at least 97 reported cases in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky and New York. More than half of the infections are in Michigan.
“The actual number of sick people in this outbreak is likely higher than the reported number, and the outbreak may not be limited to states with known diseases,” the CDC warned in its statement.
Some cases had more serious consequences, including 43 people who were hospitalized. Most of the diseases occurred in Michigan, with only one each in New York and Kentucky.
Of the 97 reported cases, 43 people have been hospitalized and 10 have developed haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious complication that can lead to kidney failure. No deaths were reported, according to the CDC.
The outbreak has been linked to the restaurant chain’s romaine lettuce. Corbis via Getty Images
E. Coli is a bacterium that lives in the digestive tract of animals and humans, while most species are harmless, some can cause serious illnesses. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Some people experience high fevers and many develop life-threatening conditions.
On August 21, Wendy’s removed the lettuce from its Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania restaurants. The CDC noted that Wendy’s uses a different type of romaine lettuce for salads than it does for its sandwiches.