big-map-12-4-151-300x186The CDC, the FDA and public health officials in several states are investigating an outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O26 (STEC O26) infections.  As of December 2, 2015, 52 people infected with the outbreak strain of STEC O26 have been reported from nine states. 20 ill people have been hospitalized.

Of the three most recent illnesses reported in November, only one ill person reported eating at Chipotle Mexican Grill in the week before their illness began.

The epidemiologic evidence available at this time suggests that a common meal item or ingredient served at Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants in several states is a likely source of this outbreak. 47 (90%) of 52 ill people interviewed reported eating at a Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurant in the week before their illness started.

The investigation has not identified what specific food is linked to illness

Chipotle Faces challenges – Putting this in context – first, you had the Seattle Summer E. coli Outbreak that was never mentioned.  Then it was the Minnesota Salmonella Outbreak and then California Norovirus Outbreak.   And, then it was the E. coli O26 Outbreak, and finally the Boston Norovirus Outbreak.

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