In a concerning health development, the St. Louis County Department of Public Health is currently investigating an outbreak of E. coli that has affected more than 20 students and parents associated with Rockwood Summit High School. The outbreak has raised alarms among health officials and the community alike, prompting urgent action to identify the source and mitigate further spread.
The situation escalated when Michele Dubrouillet reported that her 16-year-old son, Nolan, began experiencing severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea and cramping. Concerned about the alarming nature of his symptoms, which eventually included blood in his stool, Dubrouillet sought immediate medical attention at Mercy Hospital St. Louis. “When it started to become blood then I started to worry,” she shared, emphasizing the seriousness of the condition.
Health officials have confirmed that the outbreak is not linked to the school itself. Amanda Brzozowsky, a senior epidemiologist with the St. Louis County Public Health Department, is leading the investigation. She noted that the strain involved in this outbreak is particularly virulent and can lead to severe illness.
Preliminary findings suggest that the E. coli infection may have originated from an off-campus event attended by students and their families. Dubrouillet recounted that Nolan participated in an end-of-season banquet on Thursday, which many of his peers also attended. “A lot of his friends are just not feeling well, and several of them have been hospitalized now,” she stated, highlighting the widespread impact of the outbreak.
In response to the outbreak, the Department of Public Health has deployed Communicable Disease Investigators and Environmental Health Inspectors to trace the source of exposure. These officials are conducting interviews with those affected to gather information about symptoms, potential food sources, travel history, and any animal contact that may have contributed to the outbreak.
The Rockwood School District has acknowledged the situation and is cooperating closely with health authorities. In a statement released on November 13, the district informed the community that they were made aware of suspected E. coli cases linked to the off-campus event. They have taken proactive measures to notify staff and families of students who attended the banquet, advising them to monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.
As a precautionary measure, the district also initiated a thorough cleaning of Rockwood Summit High School, focusing on disinfecting classrooms, common areas, and restrooms to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The investigation is ongoing, and health officials are urging anyone who attended the event and is experiencing symptoms to seek medical care promptly. E. coli infections can lead to serious health complications, and early intervention is crucial for affected individuals.
As the situation develops, the St. Louis County Department of Public Health will continue to provide updates to the community regarding the investigation and any necessary public health recommendations. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and hygiene, particularly in communal settings where food is served.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed and vigilant as health officials work diligently to contain the outbreak and prevent further cases of E. coli infection. The health department’s ongoing efforts underscore the importance of swift action in the face of public health threats.
