Unfortunately, food poisoning is all too common in the United States. Foods can become contaminated by bacteria, viruses, or other toxins at different points in the supply chain, including when they are grown or produced, shipped, or served or sold to customers. E. coli is one of the most common pathogens that leads to food poisoning injuries, and it can have a significant impact on a person’s health. Those who have contracted E. coli will want to understand the potential sources of the infection and determine whether they can pursue compensation from the person or company that was responsible.

Sources of E. Coli Infections

Escherichia coli, which is commonly abbreviated as E. coli, is a bacteria that is found in the intestines of many humans and animals. E. coli infections can occur through:

• Ground meat - When cows, pigs, or other animals are slaughtered, E. coli bacteria in their intestines may become mixed in with the meat. Packages of ground beef, pork, or other meats will often contain meat from multiple animals, making them more likely to be contaminated. Meat should be fully cooked to kill any bacteria that are present. Infections can occur if meat is undercooked or if bacteria from meat spreads to other food products during storage or preparation.

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Bacteria are living organisms. It can sometimes be difficult to think of them this way because they are microscopic, but they are organisms just like birds, fish, and human beings. Bacteria are unicellular, which means that each individual is only made up of one cell, rather than the trillions of cells that comprise a human being.

As living organisms, bacterial populations can grow and evolve according to their environment. One gene that has been found in strains of E.Coli bacteria is mcr-1, which makes them resistant to certain antibiotics. Thus far, four cases of individuals falling ill to this strain of E.Coli have been identified in the United States, including a toddler in Connecticut who became ill in June 2016. E.Coli is especially dangerous to humans because it can be spread quickly through contaminated food. Young children can suffer significantly worse symptoms of food poisoning than adults because their immune systems are not yet fully developed, making antibiotic-resistant strains potentially deadly to young victims.

How Does Bacteria Become Resistant to Antibiotics?

After at least 25 individuals became ill with Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC), the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) linked the outbreak to Carbon Live Fire Mexican Grill. The restaurant is located on 26th street and serves a variety of Mexican fare including tacos, burritos, and margaritas. The restaurant complied with the CDPH's request to investigate the outbreak, which traced the STEC infections to its kitchen.

STEC is a treatable illness, but it can have serious complications, especially in individuals who do not receive adequate treatment in a timely manner. All individuals who ate at this Carbon Live Fire Mexican Grill location recently are urged to seek medical attention if they experience STEC symptoms. In rare occurrences, STEC can cause a victim to become severely dehydrated and ill, requiring hospitalization. Thus far, five victims of this outbreak have been hospitalized. If you become ill with STEC or any other type of food poisoning, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Then, consider filing a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your damages.

Symptoms of STEC