Health officials investigated a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O26 infections in the United States. This type of bacteria can cause serious illness. The investigation aimed to identify the source of the outbreak to help prevent further infections.
The investigation linked the outbreak to exposure to raw flour contaminated with the same strain of E. coli. This means people who got sick were connected through their exposure to this product. The report does not provide specific numbers on how many people were affected or detailed safety outcomes from the illnesses.
This information comes from an outbreak investigation report, not a controlled scientific study. Such reports are crucial for identifying potential public health risks quickly. The finding shows an association between the flour and the illnesses, but does not definitively prove the flour caused every case.
Readers should understand this as a public health alert from an ongoing investigation. It highlights that raw flour can be a source of harmful bacteria and should be handled carefully. Always follow food safety guidelines, like not eating raw dough or batter, to reduce your risk.