E.coli outbreak linked to Brisbane Ekka climb, at least eight cases confirmed
Several days after the initial alert from Queensland Health concerning Shiga toxin producing E.Coli (STEC) infections after visiting the Ekka, the case count continues to grow, according to a Perth Now report Tuesday.
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Initial reports from health officials Friday were four cases; however, the latest reports show that at least eight cases of the bacterial infection have been confirmed, with another nine suspected cases pending laboratory confirmation.
Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said it was unclear at this stage the exact source of the bacteria, but the affected persons reported visiting the Animal Boulevard at the Ekka.
The eight confirmed cases are evenly divided between children and adults, with the majority being female. Two patients required hospitalization for their illness, but have since been released.
“Queenslanders should be alert, but not alarmed, about this incident and simple precautions such as those outlined below would guard against a further spread of infection,” Dr Young said.
“STEC is a very serious, very infectious type of bacteria and can spread easily from person to person if they do not have good hygiene practices.
“Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the condition.”
She said anyone who is experiencing persistent or bloody diarrhea after visiting the Ekka must seek urgent medical attention from their GP.
Infections from STEC can result in dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps 2-8 days (3-4 days, on average) after exposure to the organism. While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS).
According to Dr Young, “We anticipate given it has been six days since the Ekka finished, that most if not all cases would have been identified by now. The concern now is to stop any further spread.”
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