Beware: Beef Products Linked to E.Coli Outbreak in 4 States

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is linking the recent outbreak of E.coli in four states to beef, veal and bison products.

According to a report from CNN, a total of seven people, aging from 1 to 74 years from West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts, have been infected with E. coli O157:H7. While no deaths have been reported yet, five of the seven reported cases required hospital care.

Investigations conducted by the CDC, Department of Agriculture and other agencies have traced back the outbreak from contaminated beef products at Adams Farm Slaughterhouse in Athol, Massachusetts.

Adams Farm quickly issued a voluntary recall of their products as a safety precaution and to prevent further outbreaks. The recalled beef, veal and bison products include those that have originated in animals that were slaughtered on July 15, 25 and 27 and Aug. 3, 8, 10, 11, 17, 24 and 26. The allegedly contaminated products were processed and packed between the dates of July 21 and Sept. 22.

"We are working with the USDA and the Mass Department of Public Health to ensure that all product that could be contaminated is withdrawn from sale to protect our customers and those that buy from our customers," Adams Farm said in a statement.

The contaminated items were shipped to farmers' markets, retailers and restaurants in Massachusetts, Connecticut and eastern New York and were believed to be shipped in neighboring states as well.

Consumers who have bought the products that were included in the recall list are advised to dispose it immediately or return it to the stores. Restaurants and retailers are also advised to get rid of the meats.

E.coli or Escherichia coli is a large and diverse group of bacteria that can be found in the environment, foods and intestines of people and animals. While most of the strains of E.coli are harmless, some kinds can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and stomach cramps. In some rare cases, E.coli infection could lead to kidney failure, respiratory illness and pneumonia.