Flathead County E.Coli Outbreak: What You Need To Know

1 Dead, 14 Sick From E. Coli Outbreak In Flathead County

From the Flathead Beacon

The Flathead City County Health Department  reports that 14 people were sick and one person died after eating beef tainted with E. coli.  The person who died was a 65 year old woman visiting from out of state. The last day the beef is thought to be consumed was July 14, 2024.  The businesses affected, in conjunction with the city-county health department, have disposed of the contaminated beef.

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What Happened

All cases were derived from consumers eating undercooked wagyu burgers.  The restaurants in Flathead County affected by the outbreak are:

• The Gunsight Saloon
• Hops Downtown Grill
• Tamarack Brewing Company
• The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
• Harbor Grill
• Flathead Fish
• Crawdad Cafe
• Flathead Lake Lodge

The Flathead Fish, Crawdad Café and Flathead Lake Lodge had no illnesses reported from their restaurants.

What Is E. Coli And Why Is It A Killer?

From The World Health Organization:

"Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacterium that is commonly found in the gut of humans and warm-blooded animals. Most strains of E. coli are harmless. Some strains however, such as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), can cause severe foodborne disease. It is transmitted to humans primarily through consumption of contaminated foods, such as raw or undercooked ground meat products, raw milk, and contaminated raw vegetables and sprouts."

Some infested with E. coli can come down with H.U.S. about a week after the first symptoms. Depending on the overall general health of the individual, H.U.S., may result in death due to:

• Kidney failure
• Dwindling urination
• Maximum fatigue
• Seizures
• Confusion or dizziness
• Flushed face

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What's The Best Way To Prevent E. Coli Infection?

From the Flathead Beacon:

• Cook beef and pork to 160 degrees
• Don't eat raw or undercooked meat
• Wash your hands