1991 Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Linked to Fresh-Pressed Apple Cider, Massachusetts

Drinking apple cider from a specific cider mill in Massachusetts was statistically associated with E. coli O157:H7 infection. Fortunately the number of contaminated lots of apple cider were small. Cultures of ten cider containers purchased from the cider mill throughout the fall did not show the presence of E. coli O157:H7. The cider-press operator also raised cattle. Manure samples from the cattle also did not show the presence of E. coli O157:H7. There was no evidence that farm workers had recent E. coli O157:H7 infection.

Overview

Outbreak began:October 1991
Affected country:US
States/territories:MA
Pathogen:E. coli O157:H7
Vehicle(s):Beverage
Location(s):Private Home
Brand name(s):Unknown
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:23
Number hospitalized:6

Sources & documents

Report / reference links