Robert Bates - E. Coli Outbreak attorney

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In September 2023, several children from Sullivan and Washington counties fell ill after visiting an animal exhibit at the Appalachian Fairgrounds.

• Dates: September 26 and 27, 2023
• Location: Animal exhibit at the Appalachian Fairgrounds.
• Affected: Elementary students from Sullivan and Washington counties.
• 7 children hospitalized.
• 4 remain seriously ill over two weeks later.
• Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) identified as the culprit.
• The outbreak is reminiscent of past E. coli cases linked to animal exhibits and fairs.

Statement from Dr. David Kirschke, Regional Medical Officer for the Northeast Regional Health Office:
“The Northeast Regional Health Office and the Sullivan County Health Department are investigating cases of illness caused by Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) among elementary school children in Washington and Sullivan counties. These illnesses occurred after some classes visited an animal exhibit at the fairgrounds on September 26 and 27. So far, 7 children have been hospitalized and 4 are seriously ill with complications.”

• Source: Ruminant animals like cows and goats are common carriers of E. coli.
• Transmission: Direct or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces, like fences or the animals' fur.
• Symptoms: Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and in severe cases, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) – a type of kidney failure.
• E. coli is commonly found in the gut of ruminant animals. While these animals might appear healthy, they excrete the pathogen in their feces, contaminating their surroundings. Humans, especially young children, can become infected after touching these animals or their environments and subsequently ingesting the bacteria. The most severe complication from this infection, especially in young children, is hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) – a type of kidney failure.

While it's deeply tragic, it's also alarming how common such outbreaks are. The more common the outbreak, the more likely the fairgrounds and sponsors knew that such an outbreak could occur. E. coli outbreaks linked to petting zoos and fairs have been regularly reported:

• 2013: Dehn’s Pumpkin Patch, Dayton, Minnesota - 7 people affected.
• 2017: Mesa County Fair, Grand Junction, Colorado - 8 people affected.
• 2019: San Diego County Fair - 10 people affected.
• 2020: Minnesota State Fair - 11 people affected, with one child developing HUS.

These outbreaks emphasize the need for better safety protocols, including proper signage, restricted food areas, and adequate handwashing stations.

• There is a large corporation that was behind the exhibit at the Appalachian Fairgrounds, they will share in the responsibility. 
• The large corporation has already put lawyers in motion to protect themselves. 
• The large corporation has already started investigating and building its defense.

Our dedicated team is experienced in handling cases like these. Noted food safety attorney Eric Hageman, known for representing many families in similar situations, is part of our network.

Our Promise:

• Guidance: Navigating the legal complexities during such emotional times can be overwhelming. We're here to guide you.
• Justice: We will strive to ensure those responsible are held accountable.
• Compensation: We will fight for your rightful compensation for the pain and suffering you've endured.

If your child visited the Appalachian Fairgrounds and exhibited symptoms of an E. coli infection or HUS:

1. Visit a Doctor Immediately: Early detection and treatment are crucial.
2. Document Everything: Make notes of when your child visited the fair, any symptoms, doctor visits, etc.
3. Contact Us: Our team can provide guidance on the next steps to ensure your rights are protected.

Phone (text or call 24/7): (423) 765-1215

Email: robert@robertbateslaw.com

Robert Bates and Associates is here to support and guide you during this difficult time. Reach out to us for expert advice and assistance.