One dead, several sick from Montana-based E.coli outbreak

FLATHEAD, Mont. -- One person died and multiple others became ill after eating ground beef from a Montana-based distributor, according to the Flathead City-County Health Department (FCCHD).

On July 24, FCCHD and Montana Department of Health and Human services said they were investigating an E.coli outbreak that killed one person and made 13 others sick.

They said they believe the outbreak began with one Montana-based distributor who supplied ground beef to multiple restaurants. They do not believe the beef was available for consumer purchase at any grocery stores.

Officials said they worked with the affected restaurants to remove any remaining contaminated beef and that July 14 was the last known date of consumption.

"We send our condolences to all family and friends that have been affected by this death," said Jennifer Rankosky, Health Officer of FCCHD. "Our staff continue to work diligently through this investigation and were able to identify a suspect source early to mitigate risks and prevent others from getting sick."

Symptoms of E.coli infection include intense stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever and chills. In sever cases, the disease can damage organs.

Anyone who might be experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

For more information on E.coli, visit cdc.gov .

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