Outbreak Summary
Public health authorities in Montana announced that an outbreak of of E. Coli illnesses originating in Flathead County has sickened at least 13 people and that one person has died. The source of the outbreak is believed to be ground beef that was sold to several restaurants through a distributor.
OFT’s E. Coli lawyers are actively investigating this outbreak, and this page will update as we uncover more information. If you or a loved believe you were sickened in this outbreak, please call or contact us using the form on the page for a free consultation.
More Details
Symptoms of an E. coli infection can vary, but the most common indications of an infection are:
Like many bacteria and viruses, E. coli has an incubation period. This is a delay between when someone is exposed to the bacteria and when that person displays symptoms. For E. coli, the incubation period can last between one and 10 days, with an average of three-four days for when symptoms begin to show.
E. coli often starts as an upset stomach and non-bloody diarrhea, which will then escalate over several days.
Up to 10% of individuals suffering from an E. coli infection develop HUS, which is a life-threatening condition. HUS develops about seven days after the first E. coli symptoms appear and when the diarrhea is improving. HUS can cause a person’s kidneys to stop working. If you notice the signs, you should get yourself or loved one to the hospital for treatment right away.
Symptoms of HUS include:
Many people diagnosed with HUS recover within a few weeks with proper treatment. However, HUS can cause permanent physical harm or even death.
OFT Law offers free consultations to anybody potentially impacted by the outbreak. Our food poisoning lawyers have helped get compensation for thousands of clients, and we’d love for you to be next. Call us at (866) 395-8498 today to learn more about how we can best serve you.