At least three Minnesota children are recovering from E-coli infections after visiting a pumpkin patch and farm. The Minnesota Department of Health is investigating after they say the children had been in contact with animals at Dehn’s Pumpkins in Dayton, Minn.
The department is following up with groups that have visited the farm since Oct. 12.
The three cases were all children, ranging in age from 15 months to 7 years and are residents of the Twin Cities metro area. One child is hospitalized with hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious complication of an E. coli infection characterized by kidney failure. The others were not hospitalized and are recovering, according to the MDH.
The MDH says E. coli is common around animals like cattle and goats and that this is not unique to Dehn’s Farm. Access to cattle and goats at Dehn’s farms has been closed pending the investigation, but the pumpkin patch remains open. The owners are cooperating with the investigation.
MDH Officials stress if you come in contact with animals such as cows and goats that you should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after.
Symptoms of E. coli include severe stomach cramps and diarrhea with a low-grade or no fever.
Source; http://kstp.com/article/stories/s3200943.shtml