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OXFORD, Maine (AP) — Two Maine children have been hospitalized with symptoms associated with E. coli, and state health officials said Tuesday they are investigating whether their illness can be traced to the Oxford County fair.
The state Center for Disease Control and Prevention is looking for common links, including that both children from Androscoggin County attended the fair last month. The CDC is sending the state veterinarian and Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to the fair to investigate, a spokesman said. They'll be looking at animal exhibits, among other things.
State veterinarian Michele Walsh said she will look for environmental samples at the fairgrounds. Fair President Jackie Young said she's cooperating with the investigation.
Lab tests revealed the presence of toxins associated with E. coli in both children, the CDC spokesman said. The state had between 20 and 33 cases of E. coli every year from 2010 to 2014.
Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting. The agency says the best defense against the bacterial illness is to thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
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