No E. coli cases identified at Rochester Red Cow location

ROCHESTER — The Minnesota Department of Health said no cases of E. coli have been identified at the Rochester Red Cow location as of Monday, Nov. 18.

MDH identified 10 cases of E. coli O157 infection in people who had eaten burgers at multiple locations of Red Cow from Oct. 31 to Nov.

7. The restaurant chain also has locations in Hennepin and Ramsey counties. The cases of E.

coli “have potentially been traced to a Wolverine ground beef product sourced through US Foods that we previously used in the restaurants,” according to a statement from Red Cow. The ground beef is no longer served at Red Cow. ADVERTISEMENT “We have not identified any cases associated with the Rochester Red Cow or in Olmsted County,” said MDH Epidemiologist Supervisor Carlota Medus.

“However, this is an on-going investigation and that could change.” One additional case reported dining at Hen House Eatery in Minneapolis. The ground beef was distributed to other establishments so additional cases from other locations could be identified.

So far, illness onset dates range from Nov. 4 through Nov. 9, according to MDH.

Cases range in age from 9 to 70 years. Two cases have been hospitalized. Additional potential cases are under investigation.

Anyone who believes they may have developed an E. coli O157 infection should contact their health care provider. Symptoms of illness caused by E.

coli O157 typically include stomach cramps and diarrhea, often with bloody stools, but only a low-grade or no fev.