Over the last few weeks we have been investigating E. coli O157:H7 illnesses in several states. All seemed unconnected. However, common food items were uncooked Nestles Toll House Cookie Dough, Strawberries, Fruit Roll-ups and Ground Beef. The vast majority reported eating Toll House Cookies.
We now have reports that federal, state and local health officials are investigating a cluster of at least 63 cases of E. coli O157:H7 in 26 states. Reports indicate the ill people’s E. coli O157:H7 isolates share a common genetic pattern and likely a common source.
Hopefully, a link will be made and consumers will be told.