A popular pumpkin patch in San Luis Obispo County, California, has been identified as the suspected source of an E. coli outbreak that has sickened five people, including three children who are now in intensive care. The San Luis Obispo County Department of Public Health confirmed the cases, all of which are linked to visits to Brookshire Farms.
County Health Officer Christy Mulkerin stated that the five individuals are infected with a strain of E. coli that can cause symptoms such as bloody diarrhea and vomiting. In young children, this infection can lead to severe complications, including renal disease and kidney failure. Three of the infected individuals are children currently in the pediatric intensive care unit.
While the exact source of the contamination is still under investigation, officials noted that all affected individuals had visited Brookshire Farms. The period of potential exposure is believed to be between October 16 and October 26.
Brookshire Farms has voluntarily closed its operations and will remain closed while testing is conducted. Results from these tests are anticipated to take several days. The owner of Brookshire Farms has stated that the farm is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Health officials are advising anyone who visited the farm between October 16 and October 26 and is experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, such as cramping abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea, to contact their healthcare provider. The department emphasized that children are at a higher risk of developing complications from E. coli infection.
"We are working diligently to identify the source of these infections to protect the health of our community," Mulkerin said. "We encourage anyone who may have been exposed and is experiencing symptoms consistent with E. coli infection to seek immediate medical attention."
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically appear three to ten days after exposure. Officials urge anyone experiencing bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, or other concerning symptoms to seek prompt medical care.