'Fast-Moving' E. coli Outbreak Spreads Across Ohio: CDC

WASHINGTON, DC — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is monitoring what federal health officials are calling a "fast-moving" E. coli outbreak affecting Ohio and Michigan residents.

So far, 29 cases have been reported since July 26, according to the CDC — 14 in Ohio and 15 in Michigan. Nine people have been hospitalized due to illness.

Cases have been reported in the following Ohio counties, according to the Columbus Dispatch, citing the Department of Health:

• Wood (5 cases)
• Lucas (2 cases)
• Mahoning (2 cases)
• Clermont (1 case)
• Cuyahoga (1 case)
• Franklin (1 case)
• Lorain (1 case)
• Summit (1 case)

Those sickened range in age from 11 to 72 years, the Dispatch reported. Nine are males and five are females.

The CDC has not yet identified a cause of the outbreak.

According to federal health officials, the number of E. coli cases is likely underreported and it's possible the outbreak may have spread to other states.

E. coli is often accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102 degrees
• Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving
• Bloody diarrhea
• Excessive vomiting / unable to keep liquids down
• Dehydration (signs include dry mouth and throat, feeling dizzy when standing, and lack of urination)

The CDC offers tips on how to avoid or reduce the risk of E. coli on its website.