Iceberg and Romaine Lettuce E. coli Outbreak

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157 (ref #1280) infections linked to an iceberg and romaine lettuce blend served at catering events, restaurants, and a school. Based on epidemiological information collected by CDC, a total of 69 people infected with the same strain of E. coli O157 have been reported from 10 states. FDA’s traceback investigation has identified an iceberg and romaine lettuce blend from a common supplier as the source of this outbreak; however, impacted product identified to date appears to be past shelf life and no longer on the market. FDA is continuing to work with the supplier to determine if any additional product could be impacted. At this time, there does not appear to be any ongoing risk to public health and there is no recommendation for consumers to avoid iceberg or romaine lettuce. FDA’s investigation is ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available. This outbreak may well be linked to the Andre’s Catering E. coli Outbreak.

Andre’s Catering E. coli Outbreak

Missouri Health officials have reported that 115 people, including students from Rockwood Summit High School and adults from the community, have been confirmed as outbreak patients. The patients attended five separate events catered by Andre’s Banquet Center. Patients attended two school band events, two funerals and a Veterans’ event catered by the business. As of Nov. 21, county hospitals reported that two of the outbreak patients had developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, a rare but serious disease that can occur as a complication of an E. coli infection.