Chipotle E. coli Outbreak Hits Maryland
A recent article posted on the NBC Washington website confirmed multiple E. coli sickness cases in Maryland, which are likely tied to the recent nation-wide Chipotle E. coli outbreak.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “a total of 52 cases now have been reported in nine states, including Maryland.”
Dangers of E. coli
- coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines, but there are multiple strains, some of which can cause food poisoning. While many people recover within a week, and the illness does not often result in death, serious infections can require costly hospital care. This raises concern around the recent Chipotle E. coli outbreak as complications of E. coli can include hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can result in kidney failure.
The CDC is currently investigating the source of the E. coli outbreak within Chipotle, but has not yet identified one. Until the risk of infection has been cleared, it is advised to exercise caution when choosing to eat at Chipotle.
When food poisoning is costly
Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience severe food poisoning from E. coli requiring hospital care. Although healthy adults generally can handle the illness without requiring hospital care, everyone’s immune system responds differently to bacterium-related infections.
A week-long stay in the hospital to treat severe E. coli sickness can be costly. However, you may not be stuck with the bill. Whenever foodborne illness arises from a restaurant, you should seek treatment immediately, save your receipt from the restaurant, and report the incident to both the local health department and the restaurant itself. Then, you should contact a lawyer to see if you have a case for reimbursement of your illness-related costs.
Are you a victim of E. coli illness? Call JBA
A lawyer experienced in personal injury claims will be able to provide insight on your case, and represent you in seeking restitution for illness resulting from an E. coli outbreak. Consulting an individual who has insight on the personal injury claims process will prove to be extremely valuable in the long run, especially when questions arise or uncertainty on how to proceed.
Before stressing about how to pay your hospital bill after suffering E. coli illness acquired through restaurant food, contact our office to make sure you understand your legal rights. Protect yourself, know your rights: call us and Get JBA First!
Jenkins Block & Associates has 40+ years of experience in successful SSD/SSI cases, in addition to being a member of The National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives. Call us at 1-800-243-2439 or contact us online to begin the process of filing your claim!