According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ground beef might be responsible for the recent E. coli O103 outbreak that occurred in six states, including Georgia. Recent reports stated that 109 people are infected with the outbreak strain though there are no reported deaths. Some of the symptoms of E. coli infection include vomiting, stomach cramps, and bloody diarrhea. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
More About The Outbreak
So far, those who have been infected reportedly ate ground beef, though the source of the affected ground beef has not yet been determined. However, the CDC did not recommend that consumers avoid eating ground beef, though they did impress the importance of handling it properly and cooking it thoroughly.
Tips on how to properly handle and cook ground beef:
- Always keep raw meat away from foods that will not be cooked prior to eating
- Before touching other items in the kitchen, wash your hands with soap and water
- Cutting boards, utensils, plates, and countertops should be thoroughly cleaned with a bleach solution or soapy water if touched with raw meat in order to avoid contaminating other items or food in the kitchen
- Never eat undercooked or raw ground beef
- When cooking ground beef hamburgers or other mixtures, such as meatloaf, do so at the proper temperature and use a food thermometer to ensure it reached a safe internal temperature
- Always freeze or refrigerate raw ground beef within two hours of purchasing it
- Use raw ground beef within 1 to 2 days of refrigerating it
- Ground beef should be stored on the lowest self of the refrigerator
- To properly thaw ground beef, store it in the refrigerator and use it within 1 to 2 days
If you have been infected with E. coli, symptoms will usually present themselves 3 to 4 days after being exposed to it.
Speak To A Personal Injury Attorney In Marietta Today!
If you were affected by the recent E. coli outbreak, reach out to the skilled team at Jones & Swanson today. Our personal injury attorneys have the experience and knowledge you need to achieve the results you deserve.
Call us today at (770) 427-5498 to request a free consultation with one of our attorneys.
Categories: Food Inspection, Food Poisoning, Personal Injury
