The Will County Health Department is investigating five laboratory confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) that may be connected to visits to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen. The Health Department is working to identify how the infections occurred and whether there is a common source.
“The Will County Health Department is committed to a thorough investigation to better understand how these infections occurred,” said Sean Conners, Director of Environmental Health at the Will County Health Department. “We are working closely with Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm, and the owners and staff have been fully cooperative. As a precaution, the farm has voluntarily closed its petting zoo and is arranging for animal testing. These steps are part of our broader investigation as we look at all possible sources of exposure.”
E. coli is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of people and animals. Most types are harmless, but some, including STEC, can cause illness. STEC can spread through contaminated food or water, contact with animals or contaminated surfaces, or contact with an infected person. Symptoms of STEC infection may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and vomiting. Some people may experience a low fever or no fever at all…