State Lab Confirms First Case of
Spinach-related E-coli in Colorado
One Death and Multiple Hospitalizations in Several States
Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2006, DENVER –
The Laboratory Services Division of the Colorado
Department of Public Health and Environment has
confirmed the first case of spinach-related E.-coli that
is of the same strain – or DNA fingerprint – as the one
associated with the national outbreak.
“As would be expected in a widespread outbreak
that has already affected neighboring states, Colorado now has
a case of disease confirmed to be part of the multi-state
E.-coli outbreak,” said Dr. Ned Calonge, chief medical officer
at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
“This case provides further support for the recommendation of
the Food and Drug Administration for consumers to avoid eating
fresh spinach or fresh spinach-containing products until
further notice.”
Dr. Jim Beebe, program manager for
microbiology at the state lab, reported that testing has been
completed on two specimens at the lab. While one specimen is
confirmed to be the same e-coli strain as that in the national
outbreak, the other has been confirmed as NOT related. Other
specimens currently are being tested at the lab and results
are expected later this week. As of today, five suspected
cases have been reported to the Department of Public Health
and Environment.
Of those five cases, two are from Boulder
County, two from the City and County of Denver, and the
third is from Gunnison County. “Regardless of reported cases
or test results, it is important for all Coloradans to follow
the FDA advisory of avoiding fresh spinach, until the FDA can
assure the safety of this produce,” reminded Dr. Calonge.
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