Kentucky: Three Sick with E Coli After Visiting Petting Zoo

Official Statement from Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards

October 9, 2013

RE: Recent Kentuckiana E Coli report

On October 8, we became aware of one reported case of E Coli in the Kentuckiana area. Because we were one of the places the family reported as visiting, the Louisville Metro Health Department contacted the Clark County Health Department so that an official inspection could be made. Clark County Health Department released this statement to the Huber family just this morning, “Yes there is a confirmed case of E Coli, referred to us by Louisville Metro Health Dept. Our investigation shows no link to Huber’s at this point. “

Our thoughts are with the family that has been affected. Please be assured that nothing is more important to us than the health and safety of each family that visits with us.

The Louisville Metro Health Department has linked the three cases of E. coli reported in Louisville and Indiana through genetic fingerprinting.

All three victims reportedly visited Huber’s Orchard and Winery in Borden, IN, between Sept. 20 and 28. The Clark County Health Department found no evidence that Huber’s food was infected with E Coli.

The Indiana State Department of Health and the Indiana Board of Animal Health have now taken over the investigation of the outbreak.

One of the Children Infected had an open sore when visiting the petting zoo.

It is common for children to get infected with E Coli after visiting Zoo. Many petting zoos have installed hand washing stations. Some use bacterial wipes which are totally inadequate. What is needed to get rid of E Coli is a vigorous washing with soap and running water. Children should be warned not to touch their face until after washing their hands. In my opinion children should not go into a petting with an open sore.

Animals will shed E Coli bacteria for a few days before they show signs of illness. E Coli is hard to treat because if you use antibiotics they will break open the bacteria releasing toxins. Symptoms of E. coli infection typically include stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and fever. Severe illnesses may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially fatal kidney disease.