DeLauro Urges All Connecticut Residents

To Heed FDA Warning on Bagged Spinach

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the FDA-announced outbreak of Escherichia coli 0157:H7 (E. Coli) in bagged spinach in nine states, including Connecticut, Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) released information on the warning and steps consumers can take to prevent the spread of this outbreak.  DeLauro is ranking member of the House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee, which funds many food safety initiatives, and serves as co-chair of the House Food Safety Caucus.

The FDA Has Warned:

·         Consumers should not eat bagged fresh spinach at this time.

·         Washing spinach won't help get rid of E. coli.

·         Anyone who gets sick after eating bagged spinach should see a doctor.

Facts on E. Coli from the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention:

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is an emerging cause of foodborne illness. An estimated 73,000 cases of infection and 61 deaths occur in the United States each year.

Infection often leads to bloody diarrhea, and occasionally to kidney failure. Most illness has been associated with eating undercooked, contaminated ground beef.

Person-to-person contact in families and child care centers is also an important mode of transmission.

Infection can also occur after drinking raw milk and after swimming in or drinking sewage-contaminated water.

Symptoms of E. Coli from the National Institutes of Health:

E. coli O157:H7 toxin can damage the lining of your intestine and cause other symptoms including

·         Nausea

·         Severe abdominal cramps

·         Watery or very bloody diarrhea

·         Tiredness

You might develop low-grade fever or vomiting. Symptoms usually begin from 2 to 5 days after eating contaminated food and may last for 8 days.

Additional information can also be found on DeLauro’s website: www.house.gov/delauro.