7 people hospitalized in San Diego due to E. Coli outbreak at Miguel’s Cocina in 4S Ranch.
An Outbreak of E. Coli Linked to Miguel’s Cocina Restaurant
In an alarming development, Miguel’s Cocina 4S Ranch location in San Diego has been identified as the source of an outbreak of E. coli infections. The county’s Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) announced on Oct. 24 that there have been 13 confirmed or probable cases linked to dining at the restaurant.
The HHSA’s epidemiology program, in collaboration with the county Department of Environmental Health and Quality, is currently investigating this cluster of E. coli infections. The affected individuals range in age from 6 to 87 years old.
According to a county statement, the affected individuals or their families reported dining at the restaurant between Oct. 6 and Oct. 18, and experienced symptoms from Oct. 13 to Oct. 19. Out of the 13 cases, seven required hospitalization, with one case developing a severe complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome.
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The specific food items responsible for the E. coli contamination at Miguel’s Cocina are currently under investigation. The restaurant is fully cooperating with the county’s investigation and has voluntarily closed its doors until the source of the outbreak can be identified.
Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county public health officer, urges anyone who visited the restaurant and is feeling unwell to seek medical attention immediately. It is crucial for individuals to get tested and have the results reported to the local health department. Children, adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to E. coli infections.
County Environmental Health inspectors conducted an inspection at the 4S location and found no significant risk factors for food-borne illness.
Typically, symptoms of a Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli infection manifest three to four days after consuming contaminated food or drink. However, symptoms can appear anywhere from 1 to 10 days after exposure. Common symptoms include severe abdominal cramps, watery or bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. Fever may or may not be present, and when it is, it is usually mild. Most individuals recover within 5 to 7 days, but some cases can be severe or life-threatening.
If you have experienced these symptoms on or after Oct. 6, it is advised to contact your healthcare provider. Seek medical attention if you have diarrhea lasting more than three days, diarrhea accompanied by a fever higher than 102 degrees, blood in the stool, or excessive vomiting and minimal urine output, as stated by the county.
How is the investigation into the E. coli outbreak at Miguel’s Cocina 4S Ranch location being conducted, and what measures are being taken to identify the source of contamination?
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Public health officials are urging anyone who visited Miguel’s Cocina 4S Ranch location during the specified time frame and experienced symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal cramps to seek medical attention and notify their healthcare provider of their potential exposure. It is important for individuals to be aware of these symptoms as they can indicate an E. coli infection, which can be serious and even life-threatening.
E. coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans. While most strains of E. coli are harmless, some can cause illness. The strain responsible for this outbreak is known as E. coli O157:H7, which produces a toxin that can damage the lining of the intestines. Symptoms of E. coli infection include diarrhea (often bloody), abdominal cramps, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to kidney failure.
The restaurant management is fully cooperating with the investigation and has voluntarily closed Miguel’s Cocina 4S Ranch location to conduct thorough cleaning and sanitization. The investigation is focusing on identifying the specific source of the contamination and determining the extent of the outbreak.
Epidemiologists are interviewing the affected individuals to gather more information about their dining experiences and the specific dishes they consumed. They are also collecting food samples from the restaurant for testing. Environmental health inspectors are examining the restaurant’s food handling practices, storage facilities, and overall sanitation measures.
The HHSA is working closely with local healthcare providers to ensure that all suspected E. coli cases are promptly reported and appropriate measures are taken to prevent the further spread of the infection. They are also providing guidance to healthcare professionals on testing and treatment protocols for E. coli infections.
As a precautionary measure, public health officials are advising individuals to discard any leftovers or takeout meals from Miguel’s Cocina 4S Ranch location if they are currently in possession of them. Additionally, they are reminding the public of the importance of practicing good hygiene habits, such as regular handwashing and proper food handling and preparation, to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
The HHSA will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available. In the meantime, they encourage anyone with concerns or questions to contact the HHSA’s Epidemiology Program or visit their website for the latest information on the outbreak.
It is essential for the public and the restaurant industry to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses. In situations like these, swift action and transparent communication are crucial to safeguarding the health and well-being of the community.
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