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October 30, 2015

County Health Department closes Burlington restaurant pending E. coli investigation

SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit County Department of Public Health reported today it has closed a Burlington restaurant pending investigation of several E. coli infections among recent diners. Five cases are under investigation, and out of those five cases four individuals were hospitalized.

There has been an association between the cases and Chipotle Mexican Grill, 1753 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington beginning October 15, 2015. An investigation is ongoing, with specimens sent to the state health lab for analysis. Results of the state lab tests are expected early next week.

“Skagit County Department of Public Health is working diligently with community health care providers to identify cases, and the source of the infection,” said Yeshimebet Tulu, Communicable Disease & Epidemiology Division Manager, Skagit County Public Health. “The investigation involves collecting information from case interviews as well as from clinical and environmental laboratory tests. A common source or sources have not yet been determined. We seek to find a common source, to identify potential risk factors which will reduce the risk of an outbreak in the future.”

In the meantime, the Department of Public Health advises those people who have close contact with someone ill with signs or symptoms of E. coli infection to immediately see a doctor.

“People usually get sick from E. coli within 2-8 days – with an average of 3-4 days – after swallowing the organism,” said Tulu. “Only people who have symptoms should see a doctor in relation to this outbreak.”

Most people infected with E. coli develop diarrhea (often bloody), abdominal cramps, vomiting, and nausea. Most people recover within a week, but people who have these symptoms should seek medical care immediately.

As a matter of course, the Department of Public Health reminds Skagit residents to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after using any restroom or changing a child’s diaper, as well as before and after preparing food.

“If diarrhea persists, stay home from school or work,” said Tulu, who noted most people can return to work or school when they no longer have diarrhea. Special precautions are needed for food handlers, health care workers, and child care providers and attendees. Check with your employer before returning to work, and check with your child’s child care center before resuming child care.

If you have any questions about Shiga toxin producing E-coli infection please call the Department of Public Health, Communicable and Epidemiology Division: (360) 416-1543.