Assignment 1: Applications of Epidemiology-Case Study
HSA 535
Dr. Mountasser Kadrie
Strayer University
April, 2014

Introduction Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacteria usually found in warm blooded organisms such as human and animal intestines. Although there are large groups of E.coli, most strains are harmless. Other strains of the bacteria may cause diarrhea, respiratory illnesses and food poisoning. Some strains such as O157:H7 can cause kidney failure or severe anemia. Exposure to E.coli can be in the form of food, water, undercooked meat and even raw vegetables. Symptoms may include: nausea and vomiting, severe stomach cramps and stomach tenderness, diarrhea containing blood.

In hospitals and other health care …show more content…
Do not eat the recalled products and dispose of any remaining product. People who have eaten a recalled product should look for signs of STEC infection.

The other case reported by the CDC was an investigation by local, state and federal officials regarding Farm Rich brand frozen products. The report, done on April 4, 2013 indicates that there were 35 people infected within 19 states. The CDC reports that 82% of ill persons were 21 years of age or younger and 31% of ill persons were hospitalized. Two ill persons developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure, and no deaths were reported. The outbreak is done but CDC officials warn consumers that Consumers should check their freezers for recalled products and not eat them. This is especially important for children under 5 years, older adults, and people with weak immune systems because they are more likely to develop a serious illness.

Questions for the Administrator of Good Health

In speaking with Mr. Wellborn, I wanted to know his method for handling the potential litigation issues due to the recent infections. With the recent outbreak, I asked Mr. Wellborn the following six questions:
What are the hospitals infection control methods? In hospitals, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) requires that all hospitals have an infection control programs.