68 ill from E. coli outbreak; 3 serious

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Three people are reported to be in serious condition after falling ill from a recent E. coli outbreak.

A 4-year old female, a 14-year old male, and a 73-year old male are experiencing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a disease that destroys red blood cells and can cause sudden, short-term-acute-kidney failure, according to Bill Wharton, Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County.

The E. coli was traced to a customer appreciation picnic held by Neff’s Lawn Care, 9400 Ekhart Road, on July 3, where as many as 300 people may have attended.

In all, 68 people have reported becoming sick. Of those afflicted, 16 have been confirmed as being infected by E. coli 0157. Fourteen were hospitalized, including the three in serious condition.

Wharton said one secondary case of E. coli 0157 was reported on July 16 and was likely passed from an older sister to a younger sister. Wharton said this case emphasizes the
importance of hand washing to prevent the spread of the organism within the family unit.

Symptoms experienced by those who became ill include stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. If someone attended the picnic and later became ill, they should call 937-225-4460 and report their illness.

Public Health is continuing to investigate.