The Flathead City-County Health Department (FCCHD) and Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) have released new details about the E. coli O157:H7 outbreak in Flathead County, Montana. This update provides crucial information for residents and visitors to the area.
Key Updates:
- Confirmed Source: Wagyu beef from a specific lot number has been identified as the source of the outbreak.
- Case Count: The number of reported illnesses has risen to 14, with one fatality.
- Last Known Consumption: July 14, 2024
Affected Restaurants:
Five establishments have been directly linked to the reported illnesses:
- Gunsight Saloon
- Hops Downtown Grill
- Tamarack Brewing Company
- The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
- Harbor Grille
Tragically, the reported fatality is associated with consumption at Harbor Grille.
Three additional establishments received the contaminated beef but have no reported illnesses:
- Flathead Fish
- The Crawdad Café
- Flathead Lake Lodge
Health Department Action:
Jennifer Rankosky, Health Officer of the FCCHD, stated that all involved restaurants have been cooperative. The contaminated beef has been removed from circulation, and affected businesses have been notified.
Legal Implications:
As a Flathead County E. coli lawyer, Ron Simon & Associates alongside other national law firms continue to investigate this outbreak.
Preventative Measures:
The FCCHD reiterates the importance of:
- Cooking ground beef to a minimum internal temperature of 160°F
- Practicing proper hand hygiene
- Avoiding cross-contamination
- Washing produce thoroughly
- Choosing pasteurized products
Individuals experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection should seek immediate medical attention and contact their healthcare provider.
