The Athens City-County Health Department and Ohio University are working closely together to investigate cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). The number of laboratory-confirmed cases has increased to eleven. All eleven cases identified to date involve members of Ohio University’s Athens campus student population.

Together, Ohio University officials and the Health Department are working to identify possible exposures, determine whether the cases share a common source, and assess whether there is an ongoing risk. Details such as when people became ill, where they spent time, and what they ate in the days before symptoms began can help investigators determine whether the cases are connected.

STEC can spread through contaminated food or water, contact with animals, or from person to person. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom and before eating or preparing food can help prevent the spread of infection.

We encourage students and members of the broader Athens community to continue monitoring their health and to seek medical care if they develop symptoms. Symptoms can include severe stomach cramps and diarrhea, which may be bloody. Some people also experience vomiting or a low fever. Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 days after exposure and can take up to 10 days to appear.

Dr. Ken Johnson, DO
Vice President of Health Affairs
Senior Strategist for Health Partnerships Ohio University

Dr. Carl T. Ortman, MD
Health Commissioner
Athens City-County Health Department