The Minnesota Department of Health is investigating 13 cases of E. coli O111 in the state, which they believe has been caused by a “widely distributed food item.”
Seven of the 13 cases reported eating at Applebee’s restaurants in the state between June 24 and 27, the other six cases have no apparent connection to the restaurant chain.
Applebee’s restaurants in Minnesota have fully complied with the health investigation, removing their oriental chicken salad and related ingredients from menus as a cautionary measure. Health officials have not determined the exact source of the outbreak, and have not suggested anything from Applebee’s is the cause.
Symptoms of E. coli O111 infection include stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea, which can be bloody in severe infections.
Minnesota health officials are asking anyone who believes they fell ill with an E. coli infection and ate at an Applebee’s restaurant after June 20 should contact a healthcare provider and inform them of their possible connection to this outbreak.
