Getting the wrong order at your favorite fast food joint may not be the only thing to worry about when dining out, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday.
Almost one hundred people are now reported to have been infected with the deadly E. coli bacteria across six U.S. states, including forty-three requiring hospitalization. Cases of E. coli are being reported in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New York. The outbreak began in the week before September 1st, as reported by the CDC.
Romaine Lettuce A Possible Culprit
After an investigation, the CDC found that over half of those infected with E. coli had eaten at a Wendy’s fast food restaurant in the days before being diagnosed. More specifically, those infected reported consuming sandwiches or other menu items containing romaine lettuce. Although the CDC insists that a specific food has not yet been identified as the source of this outbreak, Wendy’s has nonetheless responded by removing all romaine lettuce from menu items in the regions of the U.S. affected.
No Need to Panic
The CDC has specifically stated that it is not necessary to avoid eating at Wendy’s or any other restaurants at this time. According to the CDC’s report, “At this time, there is no evidence to indicate that romaine lettuce sold in grocery stores, served in other restaurants, or in people’s homes is linked to this outbreak,”.
A Wendy’s spokesperson, speaking with CBS news, reassured the public that Wendy’s was “cooperating” with the CDC as well as local and federal public health officials in the wake of this latest E. coli outbreak.
Of course, instances of E. coli linked with lettuce in fast food restaurants is nothing new. The CDC has records of almost twenty such outbreaks in the U.S. since 2006. Regardless, it is important to stress that fast food lovers should not avoid their favorite restaurants as a result, as this outbreak is being swiftly and comprehensibly dealt with by officials of both the U.S. government and Wendy’s.
If you or someone you know does come down with E. coli-like symptoms, the CDC urges you to contact your local or state health department immediately.
