Don't Eat Romaine Lettuce, CDC Warns of E. Coli Outbreak

If you had romaine lettuce on the menu for Thanksgiving, scrap that.

In a report issued Tuesday, Nov. 20, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises consumers not to eat romaine, as it may be contaminated with E. coli.

Thirty-two people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli have been reported from 11 states, including Michigan.

CNN reports the illness has also been identified in California, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Wisconsin

People started getting sick October 8th through October 13. See a timeline of the illness here.

So far, 13 have been hospitalized, and one person developed kidney failure. No deaths have been reported .

Eighteen people in Canada have been reported as being infected with the same strain of E. coli as well.

The CDC says consumers should not eat any romaine lettuce, and retailers and restaurants not serve or sell any, until they learn more about the outbreak.

This includes all types or uses of romaine lettuce: whole heads of romaine, hearts of romaine, and bags and boxes of pre-cut lettuce and salad mixes that contain romaine, including baby romaine, spring mix, and Caesar salad.

If you're not sure if a lettuce mix contains romaine, the CDC says do not eat it; throw it away.

They also say you should wash and sanitize any place in your refrigerator where romaine was stored.

If you are experiencing symptoms of E.Coli (which can vary, but often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting), here are the steps you should take, according to the CDC: