In its latest E. coli update, the Florida Department of Health says it has found “strong evidence” connecting the Florida State Fair in Tampa to the recent E. coli outbreak, which has lead to several cases of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS).
Most of the 22 individuals reportedly infected with the E. coli bacteria are children who attended the Central Florida Fair in Orlando or the Strawberry Festival in Plant City, and at least one person is believed to have contracted E. coli at the Florida State Fair in Tampa.
“We have strong indications that the petting zoos at each of the fairs are the likely source of exposure,” said John O. Agwunobi, M.D., M.B.A., M.P.H.
Florida officials say that anyone who has attended a recent event with animal exhibits and has diarrhea with variable severity should contact a health care provider.