2002 Wyandot County, Ohio, Fair E. coli Outbreak
The Ohio Wyandot County Health Department received a report of an E. coli O157 outbreak in September, 2001 (CDC memorandum, February, 2002). A total of 92 cases were identified, including 27 laboratory-confirmed E. coli O157 infections. Two cases were diagnosed with hemolytic uremic syndrome. Eighty-eight cases reported attending Wyandot County Fair before becoming ill. The source of the outbreak was not fully identified; however, the most likely source was believed to be contact with infected cattle. Disinfecting areas that house cattle, removal of fecal contamination from contact surfaces, and exclusion of calves or cows from petting areas were recommended. Active surveillance at the fairgrounds during the local fair or at large gatherings, along with strengthening measures to prevent water contamination was suggested.
