STEC Outbreak Linked to Flour

A 10-month, multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infections was traced back to commercially sold contaminated flour.

Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) was first recognized from outbreaks linked to contaminated ground beef in the 1980s and 1990s as a significant human pathogen that can cause both severe hemorrhagic colitis and the hemolytic uremic syndrome (Emerg Infect Dis 2005; 11:603). Multiple other outbreaks have since been identified as being caused by other food products contaminated with this pathogen, including produce and dairy products. As a low-moisture ingredient generally used in baked products, raw flour has been considered an atypical source for foodborne disease. Nonetheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now confirmed a large STEC outbreak linked to contaminated flour.

In February 2016, state and CDC …

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

STEC Outbreak Linked to Flour

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Reviewing Author