U.S. Keeping An Eye On E.coli Outbreak
ROYAL OAK (WWJ) - U.S. health officials are keeping watch on the E.coli outbreak in Europe which has left more than 1,500 people ill and 18 dead. Most of these cases are in Germany. So, far the exact source of this newer, potentially deadly strain of E. coli has not been traced. Although
contaminated cucumbers had been suspected.
Should Americans be concerned? WWJ Newsradio 950 spoke with Dr. Paul Chittick, an epidemiologist at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.
"There's only been two cases (in the U.S.) the Centers for Disease Control is saying are potentially related to this. And both of those cases, as far as we know, had recently traveled to Germany," he said.
"So, our food supply, as far as the FDA is concerned, has been safe. We don't import many vegetables from that part of the world. But, they are obviously monitoring for that," Chittick said.
Dr. Chittick said, as always, remember to wash your hands and wash your vegetables.
If you have symptoms, though, including abdominal cramps or bloody diarrhea, Chittick said you should see a doctor.
For answers to your questions about your health when traveling to Europe, call the Beaumont Hospital Travel Clinic, at (248) 551-0495.
