Overview:
Will County Health investigating five lab confirmed cases of STEC that may be connected to Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen.
The Will County Health Department is investigating five laboratory confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) that may be connected to visits to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen. The Health Department is working to identify how the infections occurred and whether there is a common source.
“The Will County Health Department is committed to a thorough investigation to better understand how these infections occurred,” said Sean Conners, director of Environmental Health at the Will County Health Department.
“We are working closely with Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm, and the owners and staff have been fully cooperative. As a precaution, the farm has voluntarily closed its petting zoo and is arranging for animal testing. These steps are part of our broader investigation, as we look at all possible sources of exposure.”
E. coli is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of people and animals. Most types are harmless, but some, including STEC, can cause illness. STEC can spread through contaminated food or water, contact with animals or contaminated surfaces, or contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of STEC infection may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and vomiting. Some people may experience a low fever or no fever at all. Symptoms begin one-to-10 days after exposure but typically develop within three-to-four days.
Most people recover within a week, but some infections can lead to serious complications. Young children, particularly those under age five, are at greater risk of developing a rare but serious condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can cause kidney damage. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems may also be at greater risk of serious illness.
“Animals can carry E. coli bacteria even when they appear healthy, but animal contact is not the only way these bacteria can spread,” said Conners. “E. coli can also spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. We encourage everyone to be aware of the symptoms and remember that simple precautions, especially washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water, can help prevent infection.”
The Will County Health Department recommends taking the following steps to help prevent the spread of E. coli:
•Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals or anything in their environment.
•Avoid touching your mouth or eating until you have washed your hands after animal contact.
•Wash hands before preparing or eating food and after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
•Avoid touching your mouth or eating before washing your hands after activities where exposure to bacteria may occur.
If you are experiencing diarrhea or other symptoms of illness, avoid preparing food for others until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
Anyone who recently visited Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm and develops symptoms of STEC infection should contact their healthcare provider, particularly if they experience bloody diarrhea or severe stomach cramps. Seek immediate medical attention for signs of dehydration, decreased urination, or unusual tiredness.
Visitors Encouraged to Complete Health Survey
As part of its ongoing investigation, the Will County Health Department is asking anyone who experienced diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, or other symptoms of gastrointestinal illness following a visit to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm (on or after September 29) to complete a confidential online survey. The information collected will help better understand the reported illnesses and identify possible sources of exposure.
Visitors who experienced symptoms can complete the survey at https://redcap.link/PumpkinFarm. For more information about STEC, including symptoms and prevention tips, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health’s STEC information page.