LOS ANGELES (KABC) — One person who died in a nationwide E. coli outbreak linked to organic carrots lived in Los Angeles County, health officials announced Monday.
The outbreak has infected 39 people in 18 states, resulting in 15 hospitalizations and one death, according to the CDC.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced Monday that there have been two local cases of E. coli related to the recalled carrots, including the death of an adult over 65 who also had other medical conditions. .
The E. coli bacteria was linked to organic bagged carrots and baby carrots sold by Grimway Farms. A recall has been issued.
Dr. Leonardo Rodriguez, an emergency physician at Providence Little Company at Mary Medical Center in Torrance, says E. coli infections are most dangerous for people with other pre-existing conditions.
“Everyone has a compromised immune system,” Rodriguez said. “So whether it’s cancer or not undergoing chemotherapy, whether it’s diabetics or pregnant women, these are the people who are at risk for these kinds of bacteria, and they’re the ones who are going to have these unfortunate outcomes.” That’s very sad.”
One death was reported in an E. coli outbreak linked to carrots. According to the CDC, 39 people have been infected nationwide.
One death has been reported in an E. coli outbreak linked to carrots sold by Grimway Farms. According to the CDC, 39 people have been infected nationwide.
The recalled products include nearly 30 brands including Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Good and Gather, 365, Raley’s, Sprouts, Simple Truth and Trader Joe’s.
More information on the outbreak and recalled products is available from the CDC here and more information from the FDA is available here.
Most people infected with E. coli that produces Shiga toxin experience severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. If your symptoms do not improve after a few days or if you show signs of dehydration, seek medical attention.
“When you stand up, you feel dizzy, you pee, your urine becomes darker in color, and your urine output decreases,” Rodriguez says. “These are signs of dehydration and should be taken care of.”
Officials say baby carrot products currently on store shelves are safe to eat. If you have carrots that are part of the recall, wash any surfaces you may have touched with hot, soapy water after discarding them.
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