Learning-Vine-daycareThe South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has provided the following update to a E. coli investigation at Learning Vine Daycare in Greenwood County:

  • DHEC has confirmed eleven (11) cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in Greenwood County.
  • As of today, 186 test results are negative for STEC. The three new laboratory-confirmed cases are in individuals who either previously had symptoms of diarrheal illness or were asymptomatic, but who are all now symptom-free.
  • There is no evidence of ongoing transmission related to this investigation, and there has been no new onset of illness in students or staff of the daycare since June 1, 2015.
  • DHEC is continuing to collect and test samples for laboratory analysis. Information resulting from this investigation will be provided as it is confirmed, and in accordance with state and federal law.

Learning Vine shut down voluntarily on Monday.  The closure followed the death of 2-year-old Myles Mayfield, of Greenwood, who died from hemolytic uremic syndrome, a condition associated with E. coli.

Site reviews conducted by the state Department of Social Services’ Division of Early Care and Education June 4 found 12 violations at Learning Vine, according to results posted on the DSS website.

The violation areas pending correction are:

– Diaper changing, 24-month and younger room (x2)

– Improper medication practices

– Sanitation violations (x3)

– Facility restrooms (x2)

– Feeding, 24-month and younger room

– Food safety/menu

– Posted information

– Other health and safety

Learning Vine has a “C” in the DSS Division of Early Care and Education ABC Quality voluntary rating and improvement program, meaning it meets basic requirement, but C is the lowest of grades in the rating program.