A new report published in Pediatrics describes a 2017 outbreak investigation of E. coli O157:H7 infections that sickened 32 people, primarily young children, in 12 states.
Investigators identified soy nut butter as the source of the outbreak, which led to a recall of more than 1.2 million pounds of products. Quick work by public health led to product recalls and consumer advisories within two weeks of initiating the investigation, which likely prevented additional illnesses.
This outbreak highlights several important reminders. Food manufacturers should minimize the risk of bacterial contamination when manufacturing ready-to-eat foods. Health care providers should promptly diagnosis and collect appropriate specimens to help detect outbreaks. Child care centers, and other settings with vulnerable populations, should practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
The full article can be found here.
