2024 Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Associated with Guacamole from PCC Market, Washington

On March 21, 2024, Public Health Seattle King County (PHSKC) posted information about an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections associated with store-made guacamole sold at PCC Community Markets - West Seattle on February 10, 2024. Five outbreak associated cases were identified. One person was hospitalized. No one died. Dates of illness onset ranged from February 14 to February 28, 2024.

All five cases consumed PCC's guacamole. Four people who became sick were laboratory confirmed with E. coli O157:H7. The fifth case was not tested. Isolates from 3 of the 4 lab confirmed cases had further testing and shared a matched genetic profile. Investigators did not determine how the guacamole became contaminated.

Overview

Outbreak began:February 2024
Affected country:US
States/territories:WA
Pathogen:E. coli O157:H7
Vehicle(s):Guacamole
Location(s):Retail
Brand name(s):PCC Market
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:5
Number hospitalized:1

Sources & documents

Report / reference links
Outbreak documents