Germantown, Maryland: Thirty-six exposed to E. coli

As a result of eating food at a picnic at Neff’s Lawn Care in Germantown, at least 36 individuals have become ill. Of those, 9 have been hospitalized. Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County is continuing an investigation into the cause of the foodborne outbreak. Estimates are that as many as 200-300 people may have attended an annual customer appreciation picnic held by Neff’s Lawn Care, 9400 Ekhart Road, on July 3. Of the ill, 5 have been confirmed to be infected by E. Coli 0157. Symptoms experienced by those who became ill include stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. If someone attended the picnic and ate contaminated food, they might still become ill up through July 11. Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County is asking that anyone who became ill after attending the event call 937-225-4460 and report their illness. Read article