Potential E. coli Cases Reported on Minnesota Indian Reservation

Minnesota health officials reportedly have confirmed up to a dozen cases of foodborne illness potentially linked to E. coli on the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Reservation about 15 miles west of Duluth, MN.

Tribal leaders are working with the state to try and find out how many people have been impacted and what the source of the illnesses might have been. There have been a number of recent public events there featuring catered food, food served by private vendors and by the reservation's food services, according to news reports.

It is not known what type of E. coli, if any, may be involved, but test results are expected later in the week. Meanwhile, reservation residents are being encouraged to discard any leftover food from recent community events.

Those experiencing symptoms of foodborne illness are advised to contact a health care provider or the local emergency room. More information and specific symptoms related to E. coli infection is available here.

The Minnesota Department of Health has provided the following contact numbers: toll free is 1-877-FOOD ILL (1-877-366-3455) or 1-651-201-5277 for individuals who have questions or would like to learn more about E. coli or any other foodborne illness. They advise callers to leave a message and someone will call back promptly.