The St. Louis County Department of Public Health is continuing to investigate an outbreak of Escherichia coli O157 (E. coli) mainly affecting students, parents and guests of Rockwood Summit High School who attended an off-campus event.
As of Nov. 18 at noon, 94 cases have been identified. Some of these cases have been laboratory-confirmed, while others are presenting compatible symptoms and epidemiological links to confirmed cases.
“The health and safety of our community are our highest priorities,” Kanika Cunningham, director of the St. Louis County Department of Public Health, stated in a press release. “Our dedicated team, including epidemiologists, environmental health inspectors, and communications staff, has been working around the clock to investigate this outbreak thoroughly and effectively. Their expertise and tireless efforts are instrumental in collecting and analyzing data, coordinating with stakeholders, and keeping the public informed.
“We are working hand in hand with the Rockwood School District, whose cooperation and transparency have been invaluable in advancing this investigation. Identifying the source of this outbreak and preventing additional cases requires a collaborative effort, and we deeply appreciate the patience and support of the community as we continue this critical work. Rest assured, we remain committed to protecting the health and well-being of all residents and ensuring the safety of our community.”
Further investigation has revealed that cases associated with this outbreak attended four separate events hosted at or catered through Andre’s Banquets and Catering. More than half of the cases are in association with Rockwood Summit High School.
Although current details are suggestive of salad being the source of illness, a specific ingredient has not been identified, nor has information on the nature or timing of the contamination (i.e., farm vs. later).
It is important to note that current findings do not implicate any single source or party. Additional testing and data analysis are ongoing to determine the exact source of the contamination.
DPH communicable disease investigators and environmental health inspectors are conducting interviews to gather detailed food history, symptom onset and exposure details from affected individuals, and continue to collect information from the electronic survey that was distributed to event attendees. Environmental inspectors from the state of Missouri have been on site, collecting environmental and food samples for testing.
DPH urges anyone experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection – including severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting and fever – to seek medical attention immediately. Preventative measures such as proper handwashing and food safety practices remain critical.
If you think you may be sick with E. coli infection, please contact your healthcare provider immediately or call the St. Louis County Department of Public Health at 314-615-1630.
