Will County Health Department Announces Findings in E. coli Investigation at Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm

JOLIET, Ill. – The Will County Health Department (WCHD) has announced findings in its investigation of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections connected to visits to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen. Advanced DNA testing has identified a close genetic link between bacteria found in people who became sick and bacteria collected from a baby goat at the farm’s petting zoo.

The testing, known as whole genome sequencing (WGS), compares the DNA of bacteria to help identify possible sources of an outbreak. Results showed that bacteria collected from people who became sick were closely related, suggesting they were exposed to the same source.

As part of the investigation, WCHD staff worked with Bengtson’s and a veterinarian to collect samples from animals in the petting zoo and from areas throughout the farm. Samples from several animals tested positive for STEC. However, additional DNA testing found that bacteria from one baby goat were closely related to the bacteria found in people who became sick.

“These test results provide an important link in our investigation,” said Sean Conners, Director of Environmental Health at the Will County Health Department. “While E. coli bacteria are commonly found in animals, our testing identified a close genetic match between bacteria from confirmed human cases and a baby goat at the petting zoo. We also thoroughly reviewed food service operations at the farm and did not identify any concerns.”

Updated Case Numbers

WCHD received 270 responses to its confidential health survey from individuals who visited Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm and reported developing symptoms. After reviewing the responses and laboratory results, an additional two confirmed cases were identified, bringing the total to seven laboratory-confirmed cases of STEC.

Of the 270 survey respondents, 159 were classified as probable cases. A probable case is someone who has an epidemiological link (a connection to a possible source of exposure), experienced specific symptoms for a certain length of time during the period being investigated, but did not have laboratory testing to confirm the infection.

Farm Cooperation and Next Steps

“We appreciate Bengtson’s cooperation throughout this investigation,” said Conners. “The farm voluntarily closed its petting zoo when we first contacted them and later arranged for a veterinarian to collect samples from the animals. Their willingness to work with us has been important in helping identify a likely source of the outbreak.”

WCHD will continue working with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to monitor for any additional cases in the coming weeks.

During the investigation, WCHD staff confirmed that the farm had signs at the entrance and exit of the petting zoo, stressing the importance of hand washing, not eating food around the animals and leaving all strollers and wagons outside. Handwashing stations were also present at the exit. WCHD will continue working with Bengtson’s and other locations with petting zoos to identify additional ways to educate visitors about the importance of washing their hands after contact with animals.

About E. coli and Symptoms to Watch For

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 may include:

• Severe stomach cramps
• Diarrhea, which may be bloody
• Vomiting
• A low fever or no fever at all

Symptoms can begin one to ten days after exposure, but most often appear within three to four days.

Most people recover within a week, but some infections can lead to serious complications. Young children, especially 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.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of STEC infection should contact a healthcare provider. People with bloody diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or other severe symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.

How to Prevent E. coli Infections

“E. coli can spread in several ways, including through contact with animals,” said Conners. “One of the most important steps people can take to protect themselves and their families is to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after visiting areas where animals are present.”

The Will County Health Department recommends these steps to help prevent the spread of E. coli:

• Wash your hands after animal contact. Use soap and water after touching animals or anything in their environment, even if you did not directly touch an animal.
• Wash your hands before eating or preparing food. Always wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
• Keep your hands away from your mouth. Avoid eating, drinking, or touching your mouth while visiting animal areas until you have washed your hands.
• Avoid preparing food for others when sick. If you have diarrhea or other symptoms of illness, avoid preparing food for others until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of infection.