“Throw them away immediately,” @ErielleReshef warns.
“Sanitize any surfaces they may have touched.” pic.twitter.com/ZpbZclr8qV
— ABC News Live (@ABCNewsLive) November 18, 2024
Usually, most people recover after five to seven days without needing treatment. However, some people require hospitalization if they develop serious kidney problems. The CDC urges anyone experiencing severe symptoms like signs of dehydration, continuous diarrhea, and a fever higher than 102°F to seek medical care.
Escherichia coli, commonly known as E. coli, are bacteria that exist in a variety of environments, including food, water, and the intestines of people and animals.
While most strains of E. coli are harmless and play a vital role in a healthy intestinal system, helping to digest food, produce vitamins, and combat harmful germs, certain strains can cause severe illness.
⚠️ OUTBREAK: Investigation of E. coli O121:H9 in bagged organic whole & baby #carrots from Grimmway Farms. The voluntary recall is of multiple sizes & brands. Products are likely no longer available for sale in stores – check your refrigerator. Full list> https://t.co/4hPELJWChF pic.twitter.com/Xv1JivF611
— U.S. FDA Human Foods Program (@FDAfood) November 18, 2024
Infection often occurs when individuals consume E. coli through contaminated food or water, or direct contact with infected animals, people, or environments.
Vulnerable populations, including adults aged 65 and older and international travelers, are at higher risk of infection.
To minimize the risk of contracting E. coli, the CDC has shared an array of prevention tips that focus on proper food handling, cleanliness, and vigilance with water and beverages.
Frequent handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of harmful bacteria. Civilians should wash their hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before, during, and after food preparation, and always after handling raw ingredients like meat, poultry, or eggs.
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Kitchen surfaces, utensils, and cutting boards should also be washed thoroughly with hot, soapy water between uses to prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, fresh fruits and vegetables should be rinsed under running water before consumption.
Keeping raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from other foods is also crucial. People should use different cutting boards for raw and ready-to-eat items, and store raw foods in sealed containers to prevent juices from leaking. Notably, the CDC advises against washing raw chicken as it can spread bacteria to kitchen surfaces.
When it comes to cooking food, finding the correct internal temperature is vital for killing harmful bacteria like E. coli. One should also use a food thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Officials said organic whole and baby carrots sold by Grimmway Farms are linked to the outbreak. A total of 39 people have been infected with E. coli in over 18 states, including California.https://t.co/yMVnkHiE4Z pic.twitter.com/CKcskVCsdt
— NBC Los Angeles (@NBCLA) November 17, 2024
The CDC recommends specific temperatures such as 145°F for whole cuts of meat, 160°F for ground meats, and 165°F for poultry and leftovers.
Additionally, people should refrigerate perishable foods promptly (within two hours, or one hour if temperatures exceed 90°F) and keep their refrigerators at 40°F or below to inhibit bacterial growth.
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Other prevention measures involve ensuring access to safe drinking water. When camping, hiking, or traveling, people should ensure water is treated to avoid contamination.
Similarly, one should avoid swallowing water while swimming in lakes, ponds, or pools, and never swim if experiencing diarrhea.
Lastly, civilians should only consume milk, juices, and dairy products that are clearly labeled as pasteurized. This process kills harmful germs, including E. coli, and ensures a safer food and beverage experience.
By following these steps, individuals can greatly reduce their risk of E. coli infection and other foodborne illnesses, ensuring the protection of themselves and their loved ones.
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