Outbreak Investigation of E. coli O121:H9: Organic Carrots (November 2024)

Introduction

What is E. coli O121:H9?

E. coli O121:H9 is a strain of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) that can cause severe illness. Infection can cause abdominal cramping, severe diarrhea, dehydration, and kidney failure. In severe cases, infection can be fatal.

Symptoms of STEC infection typically develop within 3-4 days after exposure to the bacteria. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include:

How is E. coli O121:H9 spread?

E. coli is found in the intestines of cattle and can be shed in their feces. People can become infected by eating contaminated food, drinking contaminated water, or coming into contact with contaminated animals or their feces.

The most common source of E. coli O121:H9 infections is contaminated produce, such as leafy greens, sprouts, and carrots.

Outbreak Investigation

What happened?

In November 2024, an outbreak of E. coli O121:H9 infections was linked to the consumption of organic carrots. The outbreak affected people in several states, and one person died.

The contaminated carrots were distributed by a single grower to retailers across the country. The carrots were recalled, and the outbreak was eventually brought under control.

How was the outbreak investigated?

After the first cases of E. coli O121:H9 infection were reported, public health officials began an investigation to identify the source of the outbreak. The investigation included interviewing people who had become ill, collecting samples of the carrots that they had eaten, and testing the carrots for E. coli.

What was the source of the outbreak?

The investigation traced the source of the outbreak to a single grower of organic carrots. The carrots were contaminated with E. coli O121:H9 before they were harvested.

Investigators are still working to determine how the carrots became contaminated. However, they believe that the carrots may have been contaminated by water that was used to irrigate the fields. The water may have been contaminated with E. coli from cattle feces.

What are the recommendations?

To prevent future outbreaks of E. coli O121:H9 infections from organic carrots, public health officials recommend that people:

• Wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
• Cook meat to a safe internal temperature.
• Avoid drinking unpasteurized milk or juice.
• Stay home from work or school if you are experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection.

Conclusion

The outbreak of E. coli O121:H9 infections linked to the consumption of organic carrots is a reminder of the importance of food safety. By following the recommendations of public health officials, you can help to prevent future outbreaks.