The Maricopa County Departments of Public Health and Environmental Services (MCDPH) in collaboration with the Arizona Department of Health Services continues to investigate an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 linked to the Federico’s Mexican Restaurant located at 13132 W Camelback.
So far, 33 individuals with bloody diarrhea that MCDPH has been able to interview have either purchased food from or eaten at this particular Federico’s. 15 people, including children, have or are still hospitalized. At least 2 have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) – also known as acute kidney failure. MCDPH has also received preliminary laboratory results indicating that the bacteria causing the illness are E. coli O157:H7.
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) responded by inspecting the facility immediately and taking food samples.
Anyone who has eaten at this particular Federico’s Mexican Food from on or after July 23 AND is experiencing bloody diarrhea should see a healthcare provider so a stool culture can be ordered.
It is important for health care providers to be aware of this outbreak because treating children with antibiotics for these bacteria can increase the risk of serious consequences.
Providers who have patients who they suspect may be related to this outbreak should order a stool culture and contact MCDPH’s disease reporting line at 602-747-7500.