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E. coli Outbreak Linked to Popular Pumpkin Farm
23 Oct
Summary
- Five cases of E. coli are being investigated in Will County.
- The suspected source is a popular pumpkin farm in Homer Glen.
- The farm has voluntarily closed its petting zoo as a precaution.
Will County health officials are investigating five confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) that may be connected to Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen. The investigation is ongoing to determine the source and common link among the infections. The farm's owners and staff are fully cooperating with health officials.
As a precautionary measure, the petting zoo at Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm has been voluntarily closed, and animal testing is being arranged. E. coli, a bacteria found in intestines, can cause illness if it's the STEC strain. Exposure can occur through contaminated food, water, animal contact, or infected individuals.
Symptoms of STEC infection typically include severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting, with onset usually within three to four days after exposure. Young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk. Residents who visited the farm on or after September 29 and develop symptoms are urged to complete an online survey to aid the investigation.
