MMWR – Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report

1. Outbreak of Shiga Toxin–Producing Escherichia coli O111 Infection Associated with a Correctional Facility Dairy — Colorado, 2010

CDC
Division of News & Electronic Media 
(404) 639-3286

An outbreak of gastrointestinal illness at a Colorado correctional facility likely resulted from E. coli bacteria contamination from an onsite dairy operation. Investigation of the outbreak was conducted by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Safety and Health. Soiled clothes and containers from the dairy operation brought back to the correctional facility likely caused other surfaces, including kitchen and living quarters, to become contaminated with the bacteria. In addition, close living quarters also likely caused the further spread of the bacteria to other inmates.  No further illnesses occurred after the institution followed the investigators’ recommendations for appropriate sanitation and infection-control measures. Effective sanitation and infection-control measures are essential for preventing the spread of illnesses caused by E. coli.  This is especially important in settings such as this one, where people perform work activities involving animals, those workers come into contact with other people, the contact involves food preparation, and the exposed population lives in close and shared quarters.

2. Outbreak of Cryptosporidiosis Associated with a Firefighting Response — Indiana and Michigan, June 2011

CDC
Division of News & Electronic Media           
(404) 639-3286

Cryptosporidiosis has been implicated in outbreaks involving recreational water use, contaminated municipal water, and exposure to infected animals. This is the first report of cryptosporidiosis being a potential occupational hazard for rural firefighters. Twenty of 34 firefighters responding to a fire in a barn housing week-old calves became ill with gastrointestinal symptoms; three of six tested were positive for Cryptosporidium. Cryptosporidium parvum was identified in samples from two of the firefighters, the calves, and a nearby swimming pond. Firefighters, like other visitors to facilities housing livestock, are at potential risk for Cryptosporidium infection. Continued public education regarding cryptosporidiosis prevention and control, in particular the importance of minimizing contact with animal feces, practicing thorough hygiene, and not drinking from untreated water sources, is important.

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES