MDH investigating E. coli cases possibly tied to State Fair livestock (AUDIO)

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is investigating an outbreak of E. coli 0157 infections associated with the Minnesota State Fair. Investigators have recently identified 11 cases among Minnesota residents who visited the fair prior to becoming ill. Most of the ill people reported visiting the Miracle of Birth exhibit and having contact with calves, goats, sheep or piglets. The ill people reported having visited the fair between August 25th and September 2nd. Cases range in age from two to 43 years. Six of the ill people were hospitalized, and one developed a potentially fatal complication. One person remains hospitalized. MDH is working in partnership with fair officials to determine the source of the outbreak. Here’s more with MDH’s Joni Scheftel.