Health officials in Dallas are investigating whether an E. coli outbreak is connected to the State Fair of Texas petting zoo.
Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, confirmed Wednesday officials are actively investigating nine suspected cases spanning Dallas County and nearby areas in North Texas, according to WFAA.
Huang said local physicians identified a possible common thread among their patients: recent visits to the State Fair of Texas.
Animals can shed E. coli in their waste, posing a risk to anyone exposed to contaminated animals or surfaces. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, according to the CDC. While most recover, some develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a potentially fatal condition causing kidney failure.
Investigators continue to look into the potential links, but stress that nothing has been officially confirmed.
Huang said that while these nine cluster cases are concerning, the overall volume of infections aligns with typical seasonal expectations, referencing 23 cases reported in October of the previous year.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
Alexsis Jones is a reporter and producer for KERA News. Got a tip? Email Alexsis at ajones@kera.org.
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