FDA In Brief: FDA Announces Investigations of Two Outbreaks of E. coli O157:H7 Illnesses
Oct 28, 2020, 15:43 ET
SILVER SPRING, Md., Oct. 28, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --
The following quote is attributed to Frank Yiannas, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Food Policy and Response:
"The FDA, along with the CDC and our state and local partners, are working to investigate two outbreaks of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7 (STEC) illnesses. We do not know what food is causing people to get sick or whether it involves an FDA-regulated food product. However, we have seen similar recurring, emerging or persistent strains of E. coli in recent outbreaks. E. coli O157:H7 can contaminate many foods, and we cannot assume that the current outbreaks are linked to historically associated foods like romaine and other leafy greens. There is no information currently to indicate that people should avoid any specific food.
"We are issuing this update early in our investigation as part of our continued commitment to transparency and early communication. We are also working toward making a new resource available soon on our website to provide early updates on new and active investigations.
"We are closely working with our partners at the CDC and the states to pinpoint the sources of the E. coli O157:H7 illness outbreaks and will share information as it becomes available."
Additional Information:
Additional Resources:
Media Contact: Amanda Turney, 301-796-2969
Consumer Inquiries: 888-723-3366
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.
SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration
