County investigating e.coli cases, as one person dies

The Flathead City-County Health Department (FCCHD), the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services  and other local health departments, are working together to investigate an E.coli O157:H7 outbreak originating in Flathead County, the agencies said Wednesday in a release.

To date, the investigation has identified at least 13 individuals associated with the outbreak and one person has died.

Many of the cases experienced moderate to severe symptoms.

Preliminary investigative findings indicate that ground beef containing the E.coli bacteria may be the exposure of concern. State partners continue to test clinical and food samples for laboratory confirmation. The FCCHD and DPHHS investigation has determined that the ground beef identified as the potential source of the outbreak was sold directly to several restaurants from a distributor. 

The product was not available for purchase by consumers in grocery store settings. Public health staff worked directly with all affected facilities to remove any remaining product. The last known date of consumption of the product was July 14, 2024. The supplier was not identified in a release, nor were the restaurants.

“We send our condolences to all family and friends that have been affected by this death,” said Jennifer Rankosky, Health Officer of the Flathead City-County Health Department. “Our staff continue to work diligently through this investigation and were able to identify a suspect source early to mitigate risks and prevent others from getting sick.”

 E. coli O157 infections can be caused by a person eating a product that is contaminated with this strain of bacteria. Symptoms of E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and chills. In severe cases, the infection can also damage organs. Symptoms of E. coli infection occur between one and 10 ndays after exposure, with an average of three to four days after exposure. Individuals that may be experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider. E. coli infections can be prevented by taking the following precautions:

: • Cook ground beef and pork to a minimum internal temperature of 160°F. Do not eat rare or undercooked ground beef. • Always carefully wash hands with soap and warm water after using the bathroom and changing diapers, and before handling or eating any food. • Always wash hands after contact with farm animals, animal feces, and animal environments. • Wash raw fruits and vegetables before eating. • Keep raw meat separate from produce and other foods when shopping for and storing groceries. • Avoid unpasteurized beverages. 

The health department encourages individuals to take precautionary measures to prevent foodborne illness. For more information about E. coli and illness prevention tips, visit https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/about/index.html.