Today the Division of Public Health of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services in collaboration with Local Health Departments is investigating an outbreak of E. coli infection in 98 people who attended the Cleveland County Fair. Last Friday, October 19, the Division of Public Health of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services reported that 106 – 64 children and 42 adults – were known to be/have been affected by this outbreak.  Preliminary findings suggest animal exposure may be the source of this outbreak.

As of 1 p.m., the Division of Public Health of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services reported that 98 – 60 children* and 38 adults – are known to be/have been affected by this outbreak. Twelve individuals* have been or are currently hospitalized.

The county case counts are as follows: Cleveland County – 58

Gaston County – 15*

Lincoln County – 13

Catawba County – 1

Union County – 2

Rutherford – 5

York County, South Carolina – 2

Cherokee County, South Carolina – 2

*this number includes one death related to the outbreak

Note: Case counts during an active investigation may change daily as more information is learned.