The Southwest Utah Public Health Department identified livestock as the likely source of an E. coli outbreak that sickened 10 and killed two children in communities near the Arizona-Utah border.
Health officials first reported the outbreak July 1. No new cases have occured since July 9. Public health officials will continue to monitor the affected communities for illness.
"Disease outbreaks are unpredictable and can occur in any community," said the health department in a July 28 update. "E. coli are common bacteria, which can be spread to people when tiny pieces of feces enter the mouth through unwashed hands; contaminated soil, water, and food. Undercooked ground beef and unpasteurized dairy products are especially high risk. Infected animals and manure are also sources of infection."
To learn more about E. coli, click here.
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