The Will County Health Department is investigating five laboratory confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli that may be connected to visits to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen.
The department said in a Friday news release it is working to identify how the infections occurred and whether there is a common source.
“We are working closely with Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm, and the owners and staff have been fully cooperative,” said Sean Conners, director of environmental health. “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.”
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Bengston’s confirmed on its Facebook page it closed the petting zoo out of an abundance of caution, though the rest of the farm remains open.
“Our first thoughts are with those who are sick and their families, and we hope for their full and quick recovery,” the post reads. “Testing is still under way, and no source of these illnesses has been confirmed.”
Bengston’s said health officials inspected its food service areas and food vendors Oct. 21 and found no problems.
“We have arranged for a veterinarian to collect samples from our animals and are working with the health department on that testing,” it said.
Bengston said it regularly has staff present in the petting zoo and there are handwashing sinks with running water, soap and towels at its entrance and exit.
E. coli is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of people and animals, the Health Department said. Most types are harmless, but some, including Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, can cause illness. It can spread through contaminated food or water, contact with animals or contaminated surfaces, or contact with an infected person, the department said.
Symptoms of infection may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and vomiting, the department said. Some people may experience a low fever or no fever at all. Symptoms begin one to 10 days after exposure but typically develop within three to four days.
While most people recover within a week, the department said some infections can lead to serious complications. Young children, particularly those under age 5, are at greater risk of developing a rare but serious condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can cause kidney damage. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems may also be at greater risk of serious illness.
“Animals can carry E. coli bacteria even when they appear healthy, but animal contact is not the only way these bacteria can spread,” said Conners. “E. coli can also spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. We encourage everyone to be aware of the symptoms and remember that simple precautions, especially washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water, can help prevent infection.”
The Will County Health Department recommends the following steps to help prevent the spread of E. coli:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals or anything in their environment. Avoid touching your mouth or eating until you have washed your hands after animal contact.
- Wash hands before preparing or eating food and after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
- Avoid touching your mouth or eating before washing your hands after activities where exposure to bacteria may occur.
- If you are experiencing diarrhea or other symptoms of illness, avoid preparing food for others until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
Anyone who has recently visited Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm and develops symptoms of STEC infection should contact their healthcare provider, the department said, particularly if they experience bloody diarrhea or severe stomach cramps. People should seek immediate medical attention for signs of dehydration, decreased urination or unusual tiredness.
As part of its ongoing investigation, the Health Department is asking anyone who experienced diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting or other symptoms of gastrointestinal illness following a visit to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm on or after Sept. 29 to complete a confidential online survey at redcap.link/PumpkinFarm.