Washington Preschool Closed Due Potential E-coli Outbreak

Monroe Montessori School in Monroe, Washington was temporary closed by officials of Snohomish Health District to prevent further E.coli outbreak after two of their students were sent to the hospital due to complications from a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infection.

Both of the hospitalized girls are just under five years old. One of them could potentially suffer from hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can cause the kidneys to shut down and other serious health problems.

Health officials are still uncertain if the girls got their infection in school. However, the school was temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. Additionally, about 60 students and 10 staffs of the school who could have been exposed were asked to be tested for E.coli.

"The exact source of contamination in E. coli can be very difficult to identify, but at this point we believe the children were likely exposed to livestock near their home," Dr. Gary Goldbaum, health officer and director of the Health District, told Outbreak News Today. "The school has been cooperating fully as we work with the families and improve existing policies and procedures to prevent these incidents from happening in the future."

The school will be temporary closed until July 25 to give way for thorough cleaning and sanitizing of the facility. Officials were also tracking down individuals and other children who might visited the school last July 11.

Young children, along with the elderly, pregnant women and people weakened immune system, are at increased risk of serious illness following STEC infection.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, E.coli are bacteria found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals. Most of E.coli strains are harmless. However, STEC infection can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, bloody stool and vomiting. STEC infections can also cause life-threatening conditions, including hemolytic uremic syndrome.

Hand washing is still the most effective way of preventing E.coli infection. CDC is urging parents to supervise the hand washing of their children, especially after bathroom use.