E. coli outbreak growing in Georgia, 4 other states, CDC says

ATLANTA (FOX 5 Atlanta) - Georgia is one of five states impacted by a growing E. coli outbreak, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are still working to find out where the outbreak started.

The CDC reported that as of Tuesday, 96 people had been infected with E. coli O103 in five states. In Georgia, there are 17 reported cases of the strain.

The other states involved are Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia, with Kentucky having nearly 50 people ill.

Officials have said 11 people were hospitalized with a type of kidney failure that can be caused by the strain. Thankfully, no deaths have been reported.

If you swallow the germ, it may take an average of 28 days to start feeling sick.

Your symptoms may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Officials recommend that you wash your hands after using the restroom, preparing food, and any contact with animals. They also suggest making sure all cooked meats are fully cook and fruits and vegetables are fully washed before eating.

As of Wednesday morning, the CDC is not recommending that you avoid any particular foods.

For more details, visit the CDC’s website.