KLOG Radio reports that the Cowlitz County Health Department is out with an alert, saying that one case of E. coli infection has been confirmed, and a second incident is “probable,” after two children got sick after visiting a local pumpkin patch and petting zoo. They say that the children got sick after visiting the Willow Grove Pumpkin Patch and petting zoo earlier this month. One child required hospitalization for several days, but is now recovering. It’s noted that farm animals can carry the dangerous type of E. coli bacteria in their stool, even though they appear well. Health Department officials say that ANYONE who visits a petting zoo, child or adult, should wash their hands immediately after handling animals. You can find out more about avoiding E. coli infection by contacting the Health Department at 414-5599, or by going to their website.
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