The outbreak of E. coli linked to romaine lettuce from Wendy’s fast food restaurants has spread to New York and Kentucky, part of the six states where the disease has been discovered.
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 people sickened in this outbreak is likely higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to states with known disease,” the CDC warned in its statement.
Some cases have had more serious outcomes, including 43 people who were hospitalized. Most of the illnesses have been in Michigan, with just one each in New York and Kentucky.
Of the 97 reported cases, 43 people have been hospitalized and 10 have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious complication that can lead to kidney failure. According to the CDC, there have been no deaths.
The outbreak is linked to the restaurant chain’s romaine lettuce. Corbis via Getty Images
E. Coli is a bacteria that lives in the digestive tracts of animals and humans, while most strains are harmless, some can cause serious illness. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Some people experience a high fever and many develop life-threatening conditions.
On August 21, Wendy’s pulled the lettuce from its restaurants in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania. The CDC noted that Wendy’s uses a different type of romaine lettuce for salads than in its sandwiches.