A baby goat at a petting zoo at a pumpkin patch attraction has been found to be the likely source of an E. coli outbreak.
The animal at Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm was identified by the Will County Health Department. The department has reported that DNA testing found the goat to be infected with the same strain of E. coli that infected people who visited the farm.
Officials from the health department said they worked with the farm and a veterinarian to collect samples from animals in the petting zoo and other areas throughout the property in Homer Glen.
Several animals tested positive for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, but additional testing identified one baby goat whose bacteria were closely related to those found in confirmed human cases.
“These test results provide an important link in our investigation,” said Sean Conners, Director of Environmental Health at the Will County Health Department.
“While E. coli bacteria are commonly found in animals, our testing identified a close genetic match between bacteria from confirmed human cases and a baby goat at the petting zoo. We also thoroughly reviewed food service operations at the farm and did not identify any concerns.”
The health department also confirmed two additional cases after reviewing the lab results. So far, seven confirmed patients have been identified. The department has not reported whether any of the patients have required hospitalization.
Investigators confirmed that signs were posted at the petting zoo entrance and exit reminding visitors to wash their hands, avoid eating around animals and leave strollers and wagons outside. Handwashing stations were also available at the exit.
Anyone who visited Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm on or after September 29 and experienced symptoms was asked to complete a confidential survey through the Will County Health Department.
About E. coli infections
Anyone who has developed symptoms of E. coli infection should seek medical attention and tell their doctor about their possible exposure to the bacteria. Specific tests are required to diagnose the infections, which can mimic other illnesses.
The symptoms of E. coli infections vary for each person but often include severe stomach cramps and diarrhea, which is often bloody. Some patients may also have a fever. Most patients recover within five to seven days. Others can develop severe or life-threatening symptoms and complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
About 5 to 10 percent of those diagnosed with E. coli infections develop a potentially life-threatening kidney failure complication, known as a hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Symptoms of HUS include fever, abdominal pain, feeling very tired, decreased frequency of urination, small unexplained bruises or bleeding, and pallor.
Many people with HUS recover within a few weeks, but some suffer permanent injuries or death. This condition can occur among people of any age but is most common in children younger than five years old because of their immature immune systems, older adults because of deteriorating immune systems, and people with compromised immune systems such as cancer patients.
People who experience HUS symptoms should immediately seek emergency medical care. People with HUS will likely be hospitalized because the condition can cause other serious and ongoing problems such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, brain damage, and neurologic problems.
