Brookshire Farms, a pumpkin patch in San Luis Obispo, California, has voluntarily closed for the remainder of the season after five visitors became ill with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. The affected individuals include three children and two adults, all of whom visited the farm between October 16 and October 26.
Health officials confirmed the cases and are investigating the source of the infections. The children are reported to be seriously ill and are receiving treatment in pediatric intensive care units. The specific symptoms were not disclosed. The farm stated on Facebook that they are awaiting test results from the county health department and have opted to remain closed until the investigation concludes, assuring the public that safety is their primary concern.
The strain of E. coli identified is O157, which can cause symptoms such as abdominal cramps and bloody diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially life-long kidney complication that affects about 5% to 10% of patients. Health officials noted that individuals under 10 years old are at the highest risk for severe complications.
San Luis Obispo County Health Officer Dr. Christy Mulkerin urged anyone who visited the farm during the specified dates and is experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention. The investigation aims to identify the source of the infections to protect community health. Public health officials previously warned that farm plants, including pumpkins, can become contaminated with bacteria from animal feces, often through irrigation water.
E. coli infections typically spread through contaminated food and water. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration. While many healthy adults recover within days, severe cases can lead to sepsis and, in rare instances, be fatal. Health officials advise thorough handwashing after contact with animals or potentially contaminated surfaces to prevent infection. Approximately 75,000 to 90,000 Americans are infected with the O157:H7 strain of E. coli annually, resulting in about 100 deaths.